Cod

Spiritual Cod

Shredded cod with carrot, bread or béchamel, creamy texture and gratin topping.

Region / occasionLisbon / oven cooking
DifficultyMedium
Total time1 h 05 min
Servings6 servings
Photo of Spiritual Cod - traditional Portuguese recipe
Photo of the traditional Portuguese recipe.

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

About the recipe

Spiritual cod is a creamy and delicate recipe, closely associated with oven meals and festive tables.

The carrot adds sweetness, while the cod maintains a salty and deep flavor.

There are versions with soaked bread, béchamel, or both; all seek a soft and gratin texture.

Ingredients

  • 600 g of desalted and shredded cod
  • 2 grated carrots
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 stale French breads soaked in milk
  • 350 ml of béchamel
  • 80 ml of olive oil
  • Bread crumbs or mild cheese for gratin
  • Nutmeg and pepper

Preparation method

  1. Sauté onion, garlic, and carrot in olive oil until soft.
  2. Add the shredded cod and cook for a few minutes.
  3. Squeeze the soaked bread and mix it into the sauté.
  4. Add béchamel until you achieve a firm cream.
  5. Transfer to a dish, cover with bread crumbs or cheese, and gratin.
  6. Let it rest before serving.

Tips from Empório Portugal

  • Squeeze the bread well to avoid excess water in the cream.
  • Finely grated carrot integrates better.
  • The ideal consistency is creamy but capable of being served in spoonfuls.

Possible substitutions in Brazil

  • Stale French bread can replace Portuguese bread in cubes.
  • Fresh cream can soften part of the béchamel.

Pairing

Aromatic white from Lisbon or Dão. Content intended for those over 18 years old. Drink responsibly.

Editorial note from Empório Portugal

This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from Portuguese culinary tradition. Like all traditional recipes, it may vary according to region, family, and cook.

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