Bacalhau à Brás
Bacalhau à Brás combines salt cod, crispy potato shoestrings, and firm scrambled eggs for a delightful Portuguese dish.
Contents (2 sections)▾
Ingredients
- 400 g salt cod, desalinated and shredded
- 200 g thin julienne potatoes (shoestring)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 50 g black olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent, which enhances the flavor base.
Add the shredded salt cod to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process helps to meld the flavors together.
While the cod cooks, heat oil in another frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the julienne potatoes until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and black pepper. Pour the whisked eggs over the cod mixture and cook gently, folding continuously for about 3-4 minutes until firm scrambled eggs form. Do not overcook to maintain a creamy texture.
Fold in the crispy potatoes, black olives, and parsley. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through, ensuring the potatoes retain their crispiness.
Why this works
The technique of combining salt cod with crispy shoestring potatoes and firm scrambled eggs creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The use of desalinated salt cod ensures that the fish retains its rich flavor without being overly salty. The key to achieving perfectly firm scrambled eggs lies in cooking them gently; this prevents them from becoming rubbery. If the eggs seem too runny, increase the heat slightly and stir more frequently to help them set without overcooking. The inclusion of crispy potatoes adds a contrasting crunch that complements the softness of the eggs, while the olives and parsley introduce a burst of freshness, balancing the dish beautifully. This method ensures that each bite delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making Bacalhau à Brás a comforting yet sophisticated dish.
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