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LUNCH

Classic Bacalhau à Brás: Portuguese Cod, Potatoes & Eggs

Savor the authentic taste of Portugal with this beloved Bacalhau à Brás. Flaky salted cod, crispy matchstick potatoes, and creamy scrambled eggs unite in a comforting, satisfying dish that's a staple in Portuguese homes. It's a simple yet elegant meal, perfect for a hearty lunch or a light dinner, bringing the warmth of Portuguese cuisine to your table.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

After desalting, boil the codfish in water for 10 minutes until tender. Drain, flake the cod, and remove any bones or skin. Set aside.

02

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.

03

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the onion and garlic from the skillet and set aside.

04

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the julienned potatoes and fry over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Season lightly with salt.

05

Return the cooked onion and garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Add the flaked codfish and black pepper, stirring gently to combine. Cook for 2 minutes.

06

In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Pour the whisked eggs over the codfish and potato mixture in the skillet. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the eggs are just set and creamy, but not dry.

07

Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and sliced black olives. Serve immediately.

About This Recipe

Savor the authentic taste of Portugal with this beloved Bacalhau à Brás. Flaky salted cod, crispy matchstick potatoes, and creamy scrambled eggs unite in a comforting, satisfying dish that's a staple in Portuguese homes. It's a simple yet elegant meal, perfect for a hearty lunch or a light dinner, bringing the warmth of Portuguese cuisine to your table.
Classic Bacalhau à Brás: Portuguese Cod, Potatoes & Eggs
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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♨

Chef's Tips

For extra crispy potatoes, ensure they are thoroughly dry before frying. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry potatoes in batches if necessary. The key to creamy Bacalhau à Brás is to avoid overcooking the eggs.
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Easy Substitutions

If fresh salted cod is unavailable, you can use frozen cod fillets, but you will need to adjust the seasoning as they are not pre-salted. For a vegetarian version, omit the cod and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
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Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore moisture if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bacalhau à Brás hot as a main course for lunch. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. A glass of crisp Portuguese white wine or a light beer would also complement the dish beautifully. For a more substantial meal, offer some crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavors.

Common Mistakes

1. Not desalting the codfish properly: This will result in an overly salty dish. Ensure you soak the cod for the recommended time, changing the water frequently. 2. Overcooking the eggs: The eggs should be creamy and just set, not dry and rubbery. Remove the dish from heat as soon as they reach this consistency. 3. Soggy potatoes: This happens if potatoes are not dried before frying or if the pan is overcrowded. Fry in batches if necessary to ensure crispiness. 4. Too much salt: Since cod is salted, taste before adding extra salt, especially to the eggs. 5. Leaving bones or skin in the cod: Thoroughly flake the cod and inspect it to remove any unwanted bits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod?

While you can use fresh cod, the flavor profile will be different. Salted cod has a unique texture and depth of flavor that is characteristic of Bacalhau à Brás. If using fresh cod, you'll need to season it more generously.

What kind of potatoes are best for julienning?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well when julienned and fried, providing a good balance of crispiness and tenderness.

Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?

You can desalt and flake the codfish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. You can also julienne the potatoes and store them in cold water (drain and pat very dry before frying). However, the final assembly with the eggs should be done just before serving for the best texture.
MORE TO KNOW
Desalting the codfish is the most crucial step for authentic Bacalhau à Brás. Start this process at least 24 hours in advance, changing the water every 6-8 hours. This ensures the cod is flavorful without being overly salty. The texture of the potatoes is also vital; aim for thin, uniform julienne cuts for even cooking and crispiness. A mandoline can be very helpful for this task. The final scramble should be moist and creamy, not dry and crumbly, so watch the eggs carefully.
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