Creamy Baked Cod (Bacalhau com Natas) – Authentic Recipe

Have you ever had an irresistible craving for a classic recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the soul? Well, today I’m bringing you a dish that is simply divine: Creamy Baked Cod (Bacalhau com Natas). Easy to prepare and deeply comforting, this dish is a true celebration of gastronomy that is sure to delight the whole family.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Cod:

• 1 lb salted cod fillet, desalted
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 garlic cloves
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or table cream)
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, poach the cod in milk with bay leaves and garlic cloves for about 15 minutes.
2. While the cod cooks, fry the cubed potatoes in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onions and minced garlic in olive oil until translucent and soft.
4. Flake the cod into large pieces, discarding any skin or bones, and add it to the sautéed onions.
5. Prepare a béchamel-style sauce: melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, then gradually add the heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until thickened.
6. Gently mix the fried potatoes and the flaked cod with half of the cream sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover with the remaining sauce, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Pro Tip:

An infallible trick to desalt cod is to soak it in water in the refrigerator for 48 hours, changing the water every 6 hours. For the final soak, replace the water with milk to achieve an even softer and more succulent texture.

Prep time and servings:

This Creamy Baked Cod takes about 1 hour to prepare and serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for gathering the family around the table for a delicious meal.

Did you know?

Cod is a prized fish in cuisines worldwide. Rich in protein and nutrients, it has been a staple for centuries. Originating from the icy waters of the North Atlantic, cod is famous for its culinary versatility and is the star of many traditional dishes, such as Bacalhau com Natas—a true delicacy of Portuguese cuisine.

With its perfect combination of flavors and textures, this dish is a sure winner for any special occasion. Whether for a family dinner or to impress guests at an event, this recipe promises to win everyone over with its unparalleled creaminess. Try it at home and let yourself be charmed by the magic of traditional cooking!