Cod à Brás Recipe: Simple and Sophisticated
If you want to impress in the kitchen with a dish that combines tradition, flavor, and practicality, a bacalhau à Brás recipe is the perfect choice! This classic of Portuguese cuisine is known for its charming simplicity and for pleasing all palates.
With few ingredients and easy preparation, this dish transforms any meal into a true gastronomic experience. Want to learn how to make this delight? I will guide you through each step so your bacalhau à Brás is worthy of applause!
Origin of Bacalhau à Brás
Before starting, it’s worth knowing a bit of the history. Created by a Lisbon tavern keeper named Brás, the dish was born from creativity by mixing simple and accessible ingredients: codfish, potatoes, and eggs.
Over time, the recipe has won generations and become one of the most emblematic dishes of Portuguese gastronomy.
Ingredients for Bacalhau à Brás
Check the ingredient list to serve 4 people:
- 400 g of desalted and shredded codfish;
- 200 g of shoestring potatoes (homemade or from a packet);
- 4 large eggs;
- 1 large onion, cut into thin strips;
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped;
- Olive oil (extra virgin and good quality);
- Fresh parsley, chopped to taste;
- Black olives for garnish;
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Step by Step: How to Prepare Bacalhau à Brás
1. Desalt the Codfish
- If the codfish is salty, soak it in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water every 6 hours.
- After desalting, boil the codfish in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Drain, remove the skin and bones, and shred carefully.
Tip: To save time, you can use already desalted codfish.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat a good amount of olive oil in a large skillet.
- Add the onion and sauté until it becomes soft and slightly translucent.
- Add the chopped garlic and let it lightly brown.
Tip: This step will perfume your kitchen and whet the appetite!
3. Add the Codfish
- Mix the shredded codfish into the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring well so the flavors are incorporated.
- Adjust the salt carefully, as the codfish already contains natural sodium, and add a pinch of black pepper.
4. Incorporate the Shoestring Potatoes
- Add the shoestring potatoes into the codfish and mix gently so as not to break the texture too much.
- Make sure everything is well distributed.
Tip: If you prefer, make your own shoestring potatoes at home. The crispiness will be even better!
5. Add the Eggs
- Beat the eggs in a bowl until yolks and whites are mixed.
- Reduce the skillet heat and pour the beaten eggs over the codfish and shoestring potatoes.
- Stir gently while the eggs cook, leaving them creamy and moist, without over-drying.
6. Finish with Parsley and Olives
- Turn off the heat and finish by sprinkling chopped parsley.
- Garnish with black olives for a classic and special touch.
Done! Now just serve and enjoy this delicious dish.
Tips for a Perfect Bacalhau à Brás
- Choose good codfish: A tender loin with few bones makes all the difference.
- Be generous with the olive oil: It is essential to give flavor and texture to the dish. Prefer good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Be careful with the salt: Taste before adding more seasoning. The codfish and shoestring potatoes already have natural salt.
- Homemade shoestring potatoes: If you have time, make shoestring potatoes at home. The result will be even crunchier and more delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the codfish?
Yes! If you prefer, use firm-fleshed fish like tilapia or haketo maintain the consistency of the dish.
2. How to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a closed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, use low heat and a drizzle of olive oil to retain creaminess.
3. Is it possible to make a light version?
Yes! Substitute traditional shoestring potatoes with a baked version or sweet potato chips.
Side Dishes to Serve with Bacalhau à Brás
- Green salad: Brings freshness and lightness to the dish.
- White rice: A simple side that pairs well.
- Fresh bread: Perfect for soaking up the olive oil from the dish.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned how to make bacalhau à Brás, it’s time to get hands-on! With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish combines tradition and sophistication, ideal for Christmas dinners, special lunches, or even everyday meals.
Tip: Pay attention to presentation and enjoy cooking as an act of love. After all, good food brings people together and creates memories!
Enjoy your meal and see you next recipe! 🍽️🍷
Image source: minhasreceitinhas luismiguelcosta
