| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 385 | 16g | 3g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 4g | 35g | 5g |
Why I Love Italian Braised Salt Cod
This Italian Braised Salt Cod dish holds very close to my heart. Not only because it’s delicious, but the history behind this recipe is something that truly embodies the immigrant spirit New York City is known for, and what shapes its exciting culinary mosaic. Much like myself Ethan Brown, a native New Yorker with a passion for gastronomy.People say blending two different worlds through food is a form of art, let me take you into this edible masterpiece.
The Magic Begins with Salt Cod
Often overlooked due to its intimidatingly salty crust and rough texture, salt cod is a culinary gem that’s meant to be marveled at once it’s transformed through cooking. With both the texture and taste brought to life after soaking and braising, salt cod becomes the star of the show in this unique Italian recipe. Braised Salt Cod is not just a dish; it’s an experience, a labour of love.
It’s All About Balance
This recipe is a symphony of contrasting flavours. The saltiness of the cod harmoniously complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions and bell peppers. The kick of red pepper flakes adds a little fire, while the capers add a captivating tanginess. The fresh herbs like parsley and basil infuse a freshness and vigor into the dish that cannot be overlooked. This delicious journey of flavours and textures continues throughout the robust sauce, crafted from white wine and crushed tomatoes.
Inspired by the soul-warming Italian recipes of Chef Lidia Bastianich, this version of Braised Salt Cod, although with my personal twist, takes you on a culinary voyage to the heart of Italy. This special recipe brings people together around the table, sparks conversation, and most importantly, creates profound, lasting memories.
So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen wondering what to make, why not try this hearty, flavorful and richly textured Braised Salt Cod? I promise it’ll be worth every moment of cooking, and every bite.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of salt cod
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of dry white wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons of capers, drained
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Begin by soaking the salt cod in cold water for 24-36 hours, changing the water 2-3 times a day. This is to remove the excess salt from the cod. Once soaked, drain and cut into 2 inch pieces. Set aside.
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, thinly sliced onion, and bell pepper. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step Three
In the same skillet, add the pieces of soaked salt cod and cook until it becomes opaque. Then, pour the dry white wine into the skillet and let it simmer until the wine has reduced by half.
Step Four
Add the can of crushed tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, and capers to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Step Five
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, fresh basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper according to taste. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse their flavor into the dish.
Step Six
After cooking, serve the braised salt cod immediately for the best experience. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Braised Salt Cod with family and friends!
