Cod with black-eyed peas

Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family, and cook.

About the recipe

Cod with black-eyed peas is a simple table dish commonly found in homes along the Portuguese coast, where legumes and salted fish coexist naturally.

The recipe highlights the contrast between the soft beans, shredded cod, and a generous sauté of onion and olive oil.

As with many Portuguese recipes, there are variations by region, family, and cook — some versions include tomatoes, while others prefer a drier and more aromatic dish.

Ingredients

• 500 g of desalted and shredded cod
• 400 g of cooked black-eyed peas (or well-drained canned)
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 100 ml of olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Chopped parsley to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt only if necessary

Preparation method

1. Ensure the cod is well desalted, drain, and shred into medium flakes, removing skin and bones.
2. Heat half of the olive oil in a large pan and sauté the onion with the bay leaf until soft and lightly golden.
3. Add the garlic and cook for one minute, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the shredded cod and stir for a few minutes to absorb the olive oil and aromas.
5. Add the drained black-eyed peas, mix gently, and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
6. Cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld.
7. Adjust only with pepper; taste before adding salt, as the cod already contains salt.
8. Finish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips from Empório Portugal

• Use well-desalted cod to avoid needing to adjust the salt at the end.
• If the beans are too watery, drain well before adding to the sauté.
• A generous drizzle of raw olive oil on top enhances the aroma before serving.

Possible substitutions in Brazil

• Canned black-eyed peas work well if well-drained and rinsed.
• In Brazil, black-eyed peas can be substituted with cooked white beans, which have a firm texture.

Pairing

White Vinho Verde or dry white wine from Lisbon. Content intended for those over 18 years old. Drink responsibly.