Baked Bacalhau (Salted Cod)

Ingredients:

5-6 tbsp olive oil
4-5 small fillets of Bacalhau ( they should be soaked overnight in water)
5-6 potatoes, cut into chunks
2 large onions, sliced
3-4 flakes of garlic , chopped
100ml milk
150ml double cream
1 bay leaf
4-5 tbsp of freshly chopped coriander
5-6 tbsp grated cheese.
Salt & Pepper for seasoning


Method

1. In a pan, heat some olive oil, fry the potatoes, until crisp. Season with salt & freshly crushed pepper. Place in a casserole dish.

2. In the same pan, fry the garlic and onions, until golden brown. Add more olive oil if required. Once browned add it to the casserole dish.

3. In a saucepan, boil some water. Add the bacalhau and boil for 4-5 mins, until the bacalhau becomes soft. Drain and flake the fish with a fork. Fry the pieces in olive oil in the same pan used to fry the onions/potatoes. Fry for 2-3 mins and add to casserole dish.

4. Pre heat the oven to 200C. In the same pan heat the cream and milk. Add the bay leaf, nutmeg powder, season with salt & pepper. Boil till it thickens. Add the grated cheese and flour , whisk until a smooth paste.

5. Pour this sauce over the mix in the casserole dish. Add the chopped coriander and mix well. Check for seasoning. If you want more grated cheese can be added. Place in the oven (reduce to 180 C)and cook for 30 mins. Season according to taste.

Tip:

The flavour of this dish can be enhanced by using good quality olive oil.

Use parsley instead of coriander for a stronger flavour. Olives can be added too.