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Brazilian recipe

Creamy Baked Salt Cod (Bacalhau ao Forno)

Bacalhau ao Forno is a classic Brazilian comfort dish, pairing the bold, savory flavor of salt cod with juicy tomatoes, tender vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce.

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150 min prep 0 min cook 6 servings 10 views
Creamy Baked Salt Cod (Bacalhau ao Forno)

Ingredients

1 kg (2.2 lbs) salt cod (bacalhau)
500g (1.1 lbs) potatoes, sliced
500g (1.1 lbs) carrots, sliced
2 ripe red tomatoes, peeled and seeded
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 large onions, thinly sliced
Black or green olives to taste
Garlic, minced, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
1 tbsp tomato paste
Coconut milk to taste
Extra virgin olive oil to taste
480ml (2 cups) whole milk
1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large egg, beaten
120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
Nutmeg to taste
Black pepper to taste
Salt to taste

Where to find ingredients

You can find high-quality salt cod at specialty international markets, gourmet seafood counters, or well-stocked Mediterranean grocers. Coconut milk, olives, and fresh produce are available at most standard grocery stores. For authentic flavor, look for high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil.

Preparation

  1. Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water regularly to remove excess salt.
  2. Briefly boil the cod, then discard the skin and bones. Reserve the cooking water and break the fish into large flakes.
  3. Season the cod flakes with minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and chopped cilantro.
  4. In a skillet with olive oil, sauté the sliced onions until translucent.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, and olives to the skillet.
  6. Mix in the cod flakes, tomato paste, coconut milk, and a splash of the reserved cooking water. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust salt to taste.
  7. Boil the sliced potatoes and carrots until tender, then drain.
  8. For the white sauce: Blend the milk, flour, and melted butter until smooth. Pour into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  9. Finish the white sauce by stirring in the heavy cream, a pinch of nutmeg, black pepper, salt, and the beaten egg.
  10. Rub a garlic clove around the inside of a large baking dish and grease it generously with olive oil.
  11. Assemble the dish by layering the cod mixture, potatoes, and carrots.
  12. Pour the white sauce evenly over the top and bake until golden brown and bubbling.
  13. Garnish with extra olives and fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side of white rice.

Notes

This comforting recipe is perfect for family lunches or special celebrations. The secret lies in the careful preparation of the salt cod and the layered assembly, which ensures every bite is succulent, aromatic, and deeply flavorful.

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