19 Portuguese Salt Fish Pickle Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
Portuguese salt fish pickle, also known as "bacalhau em conserva", is a traditional dish that has been passed down for generations in Portugal. This savory and tangy pickle is made with salted cod, also known as "bacalhau", which is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. The pickling process not only preserves the fish, but also enhances its flavor, making it a popular dish among locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients and steps to make this delicious Portuguese salt fish pickle at home.
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Ingredients
To make the perfect Portuguese salt fish pickle, you will need the following key ingredients:
Salted Cod
The star of this dish is the salted cod, which can be found in most supermarkets or specialty stores. It is important to choose a good quality fish that is firm and has a mild smell.
Vinegar
Vinegar is an essential ingredient in pickling as it acts as a natural preservative and adds acidity to the dish. In this recipe, we recommend using white wine vinegar for its mild flavor that complements the fish.
Onions and Garlic
These aromatics add depth of flavor to the pickle and balance out the tanginess of the vinegar. Be sure to finely chop the onions and garlic to release their full flavor.
Herbs and Spices
To give the pickle its unique Portuguese taste, we recommend using bay leaves, peppercorns, and piri piri or chili flakes. These ingredients add a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The final ingredient that ties all the flavors together is extra virgin olive oil. Its fruity and robust flavor adds richness and depth to the pickle.
Steps to Make Portuguese Salt Fish Pickle
Now that we have all the ingredients, let's dive into the main steps to make this delicious dish:
Step 1: Soak the Salted Cod
The first step is to soak the salted cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times. This process will remove excess salt from the fish and make it more palatable.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Mixture
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, onions, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and piri piri or chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod
Remove the cod from the water and pat it dry. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and place them in a clean jar.
Step 4: Pour the Pickling Mixture
Once the pickling mixture has cooled down, pour it over the cod in the jar. Make sure the fish is fully covered by the liquid.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil
Finally, pour extra virgin olive oil over the pickling mixture until it covers the top of the jar. This will help preserve the fish and add flavor to the pickle.
Step 6: Let it Marinate
Close the jar tightly and let the pickle marinate in the fridge for at least 3 days before serving. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will be.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your Portuguese salt fish pickle is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as an appetizer with crusty bread or as a topping for salads and sandwiches.
In conclusion, Portuguese salt fish pickle is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With these easy steps, you can now make this traditional Portuguese delicacy in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won't be disappointed!