Bacalhau à Brás Recipe: Authentic Portuguese Cod with Eggs and Crispy Potatoe
Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most famous and beloved traditional Portuguese dishes. It combines the rich flavors of salted cod (bacalhau), eggs, crispy fried potatoes, and savory onions into a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re exploring Portuguese cuisine or simply looking for a new dish to try, Bacalhau à Brás is a must-try recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
- Ingredients for Bacalhau à Brás:
- 400g salted cod (bacalhau), soaked for 24 hours and shredded
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into thin strips (similar to French fries)
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives (for garnish)
- Olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- How to Make Bacalhau à Brás – Step-by-Step
- Prepare the Salted Cod:
- Start by soaking the bacalhau (salted cod) for 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. After soaking, drain and shred the cod into bite-sized pieces.
Fry the Potatoes:
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the thinly sliced potatoes until they are golden brown and crispy, similar to French fries. Once fried, place them on paper towels to drain excess oil and season with a pinch of salt.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil and sauté the sliced onions until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine the Cod and Sautéed Onions:
Add the shredded bacalhau to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cod to absorb the flavors of the onions and garlic.
Scramble the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the beaten eggs over the cod mixture and stir gently to create scrambled eggs. Be careful not to overcook the eggs; they should remain soft and creamy.
Add the Fried Potatoes:
Gently fold the crispy fried potatoes into the cod and egg mixture. Stir carefully so that the potatoes remain intact, adding texture and crunch to the dish.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Garnish with black olives for an added burst of flavor. Serve the dish hot, ideally with a side of fresh crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Bacalhau à Brás:
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-soaked and shredded cod.
Be cautious with the salt, as bacalhau can be quite salty on its own. Taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right.
For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes to the onion and garlic mixture.
Why Bacalhau à Brás is a Must-Try Portuguese Recipe:
This classic Portuguese dish is perfect for anyone who loves rich, savory flavors with a hint of crunch. Bacalhau à Brás brings together the beloved bacalhau (salted cod) in a simple yet elegant way, making it a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its creamy, flavorful mix of eggs, crispy potatoes, and tender cod is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re already a fan of Portuguese cuisine or just starting to explore it, Bacalhau à Brás should be on your list of must-try recipes. It’s a true representation of the heart and soul of Portuguese cooking—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
