Baccala(Codfish)
Baccala codfish is a hearty Mediterranean dish featuring tender cod simmered in a spiced tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large 3-quart heavy saucepan, place butter and oil.
- Heat until butter melts.
- Add chopped onion, chopped garlic, canned tomatoes with juice, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and add partially thawed cod fillets cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over hot polenta or potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use high-quality frozen cod fillets, ensuring they are partially thawed before cutting. If you're out of butter, you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter flavor. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or using fresh herbs like parsley to enhance the dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Roasted Pepper Spread for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baccala over a bed of creamy polenta or boiled potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Cold Cucumber, Sour Cream Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Syrian Rice to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may dry out the cod and alter its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baccala(Codfish) contains roughly 2350 calories, with 9g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 239g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g 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 cod instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cod fillets instead of frozen. Just ensure they are properly cleaned and cut into the same size cubes as indicated in the recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh fish cooks faster.
What can I substitute for canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes or tomato puree. If using fresh tomatoes, blanch and peel them before adding. Adjust the quantity to about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes, and add a bit of water to maintain the liquid balance.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this baccala recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure any accompanying sides, like polenta or potatoes, are also prepared without gluten-containing additives.
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).