Rice with Bacalhau

Rice with Bacalhau Recipe from Portugal

Region / culture: Portugal | Preparation time: 3 hours | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice with Bacalhau is a traditional Portuguese dish that combines the flavors of salted cod with rice, vegetables, and seasonings. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family meal or special occasion.

History

Bacalhau, or salted cod, has been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries. The practice of salting and drying cod dates back to the 16th century when Portuguese fishermen began preserving their catch to bring back to shore. Rice with Bacalhau is a popular dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Portuguese families.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) Bacalhau (Salted cod)
1 onion
1 tbsp sugar
0.5 tbsp white pepper
2 tomatoes
1 cabbage (optional)
3 cups of rice

How to prepare

Soak the bacalhau in water for 2–3 hours to soften and dilute the salt. Once softened, remove the skin and bones. Place the bacalhau meat in a bag and pound it until it becomes silky.
Slice the onion. Remove the skin and seeds from the tomato, then cut it into small slices. Chop the cabbage into large pieces.
Cook the rice in a rice cooker along with the tomato and cabbage. Since the cabbage and tomato contain water, add water below the indicated line on the rice cooker to prevent the rice from becoming too wet.
Stir-fry the bacalhau with the onion and seasonings. Set aside the bacalhau and onion for later use.
When the rice is almost cooked, place the bacalhau and onion on top of the rice.
Cover the rice cooker and let it continue cooking. Once the rice is fully cooked, mix it with all the ingredients.

Variations

Add olives or capers for a briny flavor.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers or peas.
Substitute brown rice for white rice for added fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soak the bacalhau in water for a few hours to remove excess salt.

- Pound the bacalhau to achieve a silky texture.

- Cook the rice with vegetables to add flavor and moisture.

- Layer the bacalhau and onion on top of the rice for a delicious presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice with Bacalhau with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Soak the bacalhau to remove excess salt.

- Pound the bacalhau for a silky texture.

- Layer the bacalhau and onion on top of the rice for a flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh cod or another white fish instead of bacalhau.

- Substitute quinoa or couscous for rice.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the bacalhau and vegetables ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rice with Bacalhau in a large serving dish garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Rice with Bacalhau with a glass of Vinho Verde or a crisp white wine for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Rice with Bacalhau in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice with Bacalhau contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. Each serving of Rice with Bacalhau contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Bacalhau is a lean protein source, low in fat. Each serving of Rice with Bacalhau contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Bacalhau is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Each serving of Rice with Bacalhau contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice with Bacalhau is a nutritious dish that provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish (bacalhau) and may not be suitable for individuals with fish allergies.

Summary

Rice with Bacalhau is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Rice with Bacalhau is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of salted cod with rice, vegetables, and seasonings. This traditional Portuguese recipe is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Rice with Bacalhau. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria in her quaint little village in Portugal. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of garlic, onions, and salted cod cooking on the stove.

Maria was bustling about, stirring pots and tasting sauces with a look of pure concentration on her face. She noticed my curiosity and smiled, beckoning me over to the stove.

"Have you ever tried Rice with Bacalhau, my dear?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar dish before me. Maria went on to explain that Bacalhau, or salted cod, was a staple in Portuguese cuisine and that this particular recipe was a family favorite passed down through generations.

She showed me how to soak the salted cod in water to remove some of the saltiness, then flake it into bite-sized pieces. While the cod soaked, Maria sautéed onions and garlic in olive oil until they were golden and fragrant. She then added tomatoes, peppers, and a pinch of paprika to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

Next, Maria stirred in the soaked cod and cooked it until it was tender and infused with all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Finally, she added cooked rice to the mixture and gently tossed it all together until the rice was coated in the savory sauce and bits of cod.

As Maria plated the dish and garnished it with fresh parsley, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation – the tender flakes of cod melted in my mouth, while the rice soaked up all the flavors of the sauce, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

I couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious and satisfying meal. Maria laughed at my enthusiasm and told me that cooking was all about love and passion, and that when you put your heart into a dish, it always tastes better.

That day, I left Maria's house with a full belly and a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking. I knew that I had to learn how to make Rice with Bacalhau for myself so that I could share this delicious dish with my own family and friends.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own touches and variations to make it uniquely mine. I would often make Rice with Bacalhau for special occasions and family gatherings, and it always received rave reviews.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking was not just about following a recipe – it was a way of preserving traditions and memories, of sharing stories and creating connections with those we love. Every time I make Rice with Bacalhau, I am transported back to that sunny day in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of good friends and delicious food.

And so, dear reader, I urge you to seek out new recipes, to experiment in the kitchen, and to share the joy of cooking with those you hold dear. For in every dish lies a story waiting to be told, a memory waiting to be made. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will come across a recipe that will change your life forever, just like Rice with Bacalhau did for me.