Bacalhau Espiritual is a classic dish of Portuguese cuisine, known for its creamy texture and comforting flavor.
Spiritual Cod
Servings
4
servingsPrep time
50
minutesCooking time
20
minutesThis recipe combines shredded cod, carrots, onions, and a delicious bechamel sauce, resulting in a rich and aromatic delicacy, perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
300 g of desalted and shredded cod
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of minced garlic
2 grated carrots
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons of wheat flour
500 ml of milk
200 ml of cream (optional)
100 g of stale bread soaked in milk
50 g grated parmesan cheese
Nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add the grated carrot and sauté for a few more minutes.
- Add the shredded cod and mix well. Set aside.
- In another pan, melt the butter and add the wheat flour, stirring well to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until thickened and season with nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste.
- Optionally, add cream for a creamier sauce.
- Mix the bread soaked in milk with the cod stew, ensuring a homogeneous texture.
- Add the bechamel sauce to the cod and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C until lightly golden, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, accompanied by a fresh salad or white rice.
