Ingredients:
- 500 g of desalinated cod
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 red peppers, cut into strips
- 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the cod:
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the desalinated cod. Cook for exactly 5 minutes; this is enough for the fish to become tender while maintaining its firm texture. After 5 minutes, remove the cod from the water using a slotted spoon and let it drain well. When it is cool enough to handle, break it into small pieces with your hands or a fork, making sure to remove any remaining bones. Set aside. - Sauté the vegetables:
In a large skillet, pour the 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped garlic and onion. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, which could make the dish bitter. Cook slowly until the onion becomes translucent and starts to lightly brown. This process allows the flavors to develop and the oil to absorb the aroma of the garlic and the natural sweetness of the onion. - Add the peppers:
Add the red pepper strips to the skillet. Mix them well with the sautéed garlic and onion so they absorb the flavored oil. Cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers start to soften. They should remain tender but still have some structure, contributing texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
- Add the tomatoes:
Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the other vegetables. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and gradually thicken. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. The goal is to achieve a thick, concentrated sauce where the tomato blends with the garlic, onion, and pepper. - Season and cook everything together:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the flaked cod to the skillet. Sprinkle in the teaspoon of sweet paprika, distributing it evenly for its characteristic color and mild smoky flavor. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the cod already has some natural saltiness. Gently mix everything so the fish incorporates with the sauce without falling apart. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to meld and the cod to absorb the essence of the sautéed vegetables. - Serve:
When ready, remove the bay leaf and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Serve the cod hot to enjoy its aroma, texture, and flavor fully.
Notes:
This dish can be served with fresh bread, perfect for soaking up the thick, flavorful sauce, or with rice, which complements the intensity of the cod and vegetables. It is an ideal recipe for sharing with family and friends due to its comforting flavor and attractive presentation.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Servings: 4-6
Enjoy your meal!