Lagareiro Cod Recipe

 Lagareiro Cod Recipe

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

: 4 desalted cod fillets (about 800g)

1 kg small potatoes (or medium potatoes cut in half)

2 large onions, sliced

4 cloves garlic, sliced

200 ml extra virgin olive oil

1 red bell pepper (optional, cut into strips)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Black olives (optional, to serve)

Preparation:

Prepare the cod: If the cod is not desalted, soak it in water for 24-48 hours, changing the water every 6-8 hours. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Cook the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well (with the skin on if they are small). Cook them in salted water until tender but firm (about 15 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Bake the cod: Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a baking dish, place the cod fillets, cooked potatoes, onion rings, garlic cloves, and, if using, bell pepper. Drizzle generously with olive oil (olive oil is essential for the characteristic flavor). Season with black pepper (the cod is already salty, so be careful with the salt).

Bake: Bake for about 30-40 minutes, until the cod is tender and the potatoes and onions are golden. During baking, occasionally baste with the oil from the baking dish to maintain moisture.

Finish: Remove from the oven and lightly mash the potatoes with a fork to absorb the oil. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, add black olives.

Serve: Serve hot, accompanied by a good white or green wine.