Codfish Ala Vizcaina
A hearty Basque-inspired dish featuring tender salted cod, layered with potatoes and onions, simmered in a flavorful tomato and olive sauce, perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the salted codfish overnight in water.
- Drain the codfish and boil in 2 liters of water for 15 minutes.
- Shred the cooked codfish, ensuring all bones are removed.
- In a large skillet, alternate layers of thinly sliced potatoes, shredded codfish, and thinly sliced onions.
- Add the tomato sauce, olive oil, olives, capers, water, bay leaf, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. If you can't find salted cod, you can use fresh cod, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a twist, mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. Don't forget to soak the codfish thoroughly to remove excess salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Codfish Ala Vizcaina with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad dressed with Portuguese Dressing For Green Salad complements the dish well. Consider pairing it with a Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. This dish is also delightful when garnished with fresh herbs before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also cover it to steam the potatoes, ensuring they remain tender and moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Codfish Ala Vizcaina contains roughly 1000 calories, with 13g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (88% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 741mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
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 salted cod?
Yes, you can use fresh cod, but it's important to adjust the cooking process. Skip the soaking step and reduce the boiling time to just a few minutes until the fish is cooked through. Fresh cod will not have the same salty flavor, so you may want to enhance the seasoning in the dish.
What can I substitute for olives in this recipe?
If you're not a fan of olives, you can omit them or substitute with capers for a similar briny flavor. You could also try using artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a different but complementary taste. Just be mindful of the saltiness when adjusting other seasonings.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the layers of the dish. Alternatively, you could serve it with a spicy sauce on the side. This will enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile while providing a kick that complements the cod and potatoes.
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).