Bacalao Cuban Recipe: Traditional Flavors Made Easy

Originally posted on July 26, 2023 @ 3:06 pm

If you’re looking for a dish that instantly transports you to the vibrant heart of Cuba, look no further than Bacalao a la Cubana. This classic Cuban salted cod recipe is a celebration of robust flavors, family tradition, and the spirit of island life.

Whether you’ve enjoyed this dish at a festive gathering or are discovering it for the first time, each bite tells a story of heritage—salty cod mingling with a savory tomato base, peppers, onions, and briny olives.

The preparation is a labor of love, requiring patience and care, but the result is a meal so comforting and rich, it’s truly worth the effort.

In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through every step of making authentic Cuban bacalao, from desalting the cod to serving tips that make it shine. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends and makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

Let’s dive into the flavors of Cuba!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, Authentic Flavor: The combination of salted cod, tomatoes, olives, and capers creates a unique balance of savory, tangy, and briny notes.
• Hearty and Comforting: Bacalao is the ultimate comfort food—warm, satisfying, and full of memories for anyone with Cuban roots.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is not only beautiful to serve but also perfect for making ahead, allowing the flavors to develop even more with time.
• Nutritious and Protein-Rich: Salted cod is packed with lean protein, making this meal as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Versatile: Bacalao pairs beautifully with rice, root vegetables, or even a simple salad like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking cod)
• Colander
• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Serving dish

Instructions

1. Desalt the cod:

   Place the salted cod in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 6–8 hours.

   This step is crucial to remove excess salt and ensure the cod is tender, not tough or overly salty.

   Tip: For a quicker method, you can soak the cod for 8–12 hours and simmer it gently in water for 10 minutes. Always taste a small piece to check saltiness before cooking.

2. Prepare the ingredients:

   While the cod is soaking, thinly slice the onions and peppers, mince the garlic, peel and cube the potatoes, and chop the parsley. Once the cod is ready, drain and pat it dry, then remove any bones and skin.

   Break the cod into large chunks.

3. Sauté the aromatics:

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn translucent.

   Add the green and red peppers and continue to sauté for another 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Add tomatoes and flavorings:

   Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add bay leaves, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt (if needed).

   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add potatoes and simmer:

   Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.

6. Incorporate cod, olives, capers, and wine:

   Add the prepared cod pieces, olives, and capers to the tomato mixture. Pour in the white wine.

   Gently fold everything together, cover, and simmer for another 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cod should flake easily, and the sauce will be aromatic and slightly thickened.

   “Be gentle when stirring to keep the cod in large, satisfying flakes.”

7. Finish and garnish:

   Once the potatoes are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaves.

   Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

8. Serve:

   Spoon generous portions into shallow bowls or onto a platter. Serve hot, ideally with a side of white rice or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable additions: Try adding sliced carrots, sweet potatoes, or green peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spiciness: For a kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the sautéing stage.
• Make it ahead: Bacalao tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and meld. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
• Serving suggestions: Pair with Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a vibrant vegan salad like Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a global feast.
• Low-carb option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

“Don’t skip the soaking step for the cod—proper desalting is the key to a perfect bacalao!”

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on desalting and added ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic White Rice: The most traditional pairing—steamed white rice soaks up every drop of savory sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Enjoy with a slice of Cuban or French bread to mop up the delicious tomato and olive sauce.
• Boiled Root Vegetables: Serve alongside yuca, malanga, or sweet potatoes for an authentic island touch.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad, such as Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
• Simple Green Beans or Asparagus: Lightly steamed to round out the meal.
• Wine Pairing: A dry Spanish white wine or a light lager complements the briny, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Bacalao a la Cubana is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey to Havana’s bustling streets and the warmth of a Cuban family kitchen. Every ingredient, from the salted cod to the olives and peppers, contributes to a dish bursting with history and heart.

This recipe, while rooted in tradition, is endlessly adaptable to your tastes and preferences.

Prepare it for a special holiday, a family celebration, or simply as a treat for yourself. You’ll find that making bacalao is a rewarding experience, and the flavors are even better the next day.

If you’re exploring more global flavors, check out Best Vegetarian Recipes Without Tofu for Every Meal or discover another hearty classic like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide. Buen provecho, and may your kitchen be filled with the spirit of Cuba!

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