Baccala And Potatoes
A hearty Mediterranean dish featuring tender baccala, potatoes, and tomatoes, flavored with onions, celery, and oregano—perfect for a comforting, wholesome meal suitable for Lent.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 6-quart saucepot, sauté onions, celery, salt, pepper, and oregano for 10 minutes.
- Add potatoes and cook for 15 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and water; cook on low heat for 30 minutes.
- Add baccala and simmer for 30 minutes more.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding garlic or a splash of white wine during the sautéing step. If baccala is unavailable, cod can be a good substitute, but ensure it's well-seasoned. Additionally, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference, especially with the salt, since baccala can be quite salty.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh Basil Tomato Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving with a side of Herbed Vegetables or Pilau (Spiced Rice) to round out the meal. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving can elevate the flavors, making it a delightful Mediterranean feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, covering to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baccala And Potatoes contains roughly 2161 calories, with 23g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 157g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (236% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 66g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh baccala instead of soaked?
Fresh baccala can be used, but it requires different preparation. If using fresh, reduce the cooking time as it won't need to be soaked or cooked as long. Adjust seasoning accordingly, since fresh fish is less salty than preserved baccala.
What can I use if I don’t have plum tomatoes?
If plum tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes from a can. For added depth, consider using fire-roasted tomatoes. Adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly if using crushed tomatoes to maintain the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping! It stores well and flavors develop even more after sitting. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. You can scale the recipe up for larger batches, making it convenient for weeknight dinners or lunches.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).