Bacalhau à Brás is a heartwarming dish you can't miss! It combines shredded salt cod, crispy potatoes, and creamy eggs for a true taste of Portugal. This dish has roots in the 19th century and became a favorite in homes and taverns. Ever wondered how to make it? You start by soaking the salt cod overnight. Then, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add your cod and grated potatoes, and mix in whisked eggs until just set. Garnish with parsley and olives for a lovely look. Curious about variations for a twist? There's even more to explore!

Key Takeaways

• Bacalhau à Brás is a traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded salt cod, crispy fried potatoes, and creamy eggs.
• Originating in 19th century Lisbon, it symbolizes Portugal's rich culinary heritage and comfort food tradition.
• The recipe includes soaking salt cod overnight to reduce saltiness, ensuring a balanced flavor.
• Quick to prepare, it is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, often garnished with parsley and black olives.
• Optional enhancements include adding cream to the eggs or using an air fryer for crispier potatoes.

History

Have you ever wondered how Bacalhau à Brás became a beloved staple in Portuguese cuisine? This dish highlights the importance of salt cod, a key ingredient known for its long shelf life, much like how composting helps preserve kitchen scraps for sustainable gardening practices by recycling organic waste sustainable gardening practices.

It's a perfect example of how Portuguese cooks used preserved foods creatively. Originating in the 19th century in Lisbon, Bacalhau à Brás quickly became a comfort food, found in homes and taverns alike.

Named after a restaurant owner named Brás, this dish reflects Portugal's rich culinary heritage and personal stories. It's often served during festive occasions and family gatherings, reminding us of the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.

Recipe

Bacalhau à Brás Recipe

Bacalhau à Brás is a beloved dish in Portuguese cuisine, known for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This comforting meal features shredded salt cod, which is painstakingly prepared to achieve the perfect balance of taste, alongside crispy fried potatoes and creamy eggs.

Traditionally served as a family meal, Bacalhau à Brás isn't only delicious but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to those who enjoy it. Additionally, using a GreenPan ceramic Dutch oven can enhance your cooking experience, promoting healthier meal preparation with non-toxic materials and easy food release.

The preparation process for Bacalhau à Brás requires some planning, particularly for the salt cod, which needs to be soaked to reduce its saltiness. Once adequately prepared, the dish comes together quickly, making it an excellent option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

With its vibrant garnishes of parsley and black olives, Bacalhau à Brás is as visually appealing as it's flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 500g salt cod
• 2 medium potatoes
• 4 large eggs
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves of garlic
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Black olives for garnish

Instructions:

Start by soaking the salt cod in cold water overnight, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Once the cod is ready, drain and shred it into small pieces.

Grate the potatoes and soak them briefly in water, then drain and pat dry. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft.

Add the shredded salt cod and cook for a few minutes, then stir in the grated potatoes, frying until golden and crispy. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper, then gently fold them into the sautéed mixture, cooking until just set.

Extra Tips:

When making Bacalhau à Brás, verify that the salt cod is adequately soaked to achieve the desired flavor balance; it shouldn't be overly salty.

For added richness, consider incorporating a splash of cream into the eggs before folding them into the mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to celebrating Portuguese cuisine, Bacalhau à Brás stands out as a true gem. This dish combines salt cod, eggs, and crispy potatoes into a delightful experience. The use of an air fryer, such as the COSORI Air Fryer Pro Smart, can enhance the texture of the crispy potatoes while using less oil, making it a healthier option.

Have you ever tasted the perfect blend of textures? The soft scrambled eggs and tender cod pair beautifully with those crispy potatoes. Plus, it's garnished with black olives and parsley, making it visually stunning.

Imagine serving this warm at family gatherings or festive occasions—who wouldn't love sharing it? The process of soaking the salt cod for 12 to 18 hours guarantees each bite is full of flavor.

Bacalhau à Brás isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of Portuguese culinary culture that you'll want to enjoy again and again!