Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic

Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe from Portugal

Region / culture: Portugal | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of salt cod, tomatoes, garlic, and potatoes to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Salt cod has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean and Caribbean countries. This recipe likely originated as a way to use up leftover salt cod and potatoes, creating a simple and delicious dish that is now enjoyed around the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) salt cod
5 tbsp oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
3 cups cooked potatoes, diced small or mashed
0.5 tsp freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Freshen the salt cod as directed in the Codfish Cakes recipe, then simmer it for 10 minutes in a pan with enough water to cover.
Drain the cod and flake or chop it using a food processor.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of oil.
Add the onion and garlic, and sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft.
In a bowl, combine the sautéed onion, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, cod, and pepper.
Heat the remaining 3 tbsp of oil in the skillet, and once hot, spread the hash mixture over the bottom.
Fry the mixture over medium-high heat until it is brown on the bottom.
Flip the hash over and brown the other side.

Variations

You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the hash for added flavor and nutrition.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the hash mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to freshen the salt cod before cooking to remove excess salt.

- Make sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender before adding them to the hash.

- For extra flavor, you can add herbs such as parsley or thyme to the hash mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the hash over medium-high heat to ensure that it browns evenly and develops a crispy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find salt cod, you can use fresh cod or another firm white fish in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the hash mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook it.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic topped with a fried egg for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

10g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish (cod) and may not be suitable for those with fish allergies.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With a mix of salt cod, tomatoes, garlic, and potatoes, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her hometown in Portugal. Maria was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out new recipes with her.

On this particular day, Maria invited me into her kitchen to watch her prepare a traditional Portuguese dish - Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic. As soon as I saw her working her magic with the ingredients, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Maria started by soaking the salt codfish in water to remove some of the saltiness. She then chopped up some ripe tomatoes, minced fresh garlic, and diced onions. The aroma of the garlic sizzling in the pan was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

As Maria finished cooking the hash, she placed a heaping spoonful onto a plate and handed it to me. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the salty codfish, the sweet tomatoes, and the fragrant garlic all came together in perfect harmony. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

After thanking Maria for teaching me the recipe, I returned home and immediately set to work recreating it. I found the salt codfish at a local specialty store, along with all the other ingredients I needed. As I cooked, the memories of my time with Maria flooded back, and I felt a deep connection to her and her homeland.

Over the years, I have made this Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic countless times. It has become a family favorite, and my grandchildren always request it when they come to visit. I have even passed the recipe on to friends and neighbors who have all fallen in love with the dish.

The key to making this recipe truly special is using high-quality ingredients. The salt codfish should be soaked for at least 24 hours to remove as much salt as possible. The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, and the garlic should be fresh and fragrant. The onions should be diced finely to add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. I like to serve it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Every time I make this Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic, I am transported back to that sunny day in Portugal with Maria. I can hear her laughter and feel her warmth as I cook, and it brings me great joy to share this recipe with others.

I am grateful for the friendships I have made over the years and for the recipes I have learned along the way. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and create lasting memories, and this dish holds a special place in my heart.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and flavorful meal, look no further than my Salt Codfish Hash with Tomatoes and Garlic. It is a dish that is sure to warm your soul and bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!