"I LOVE Bacalao, but I grew up with the Mexican version which is served on New Years Eve. This is an Azorean version, and I love the addition of the nutmeg and eggs! Recipe from David Leite's book. Dried salt cod, can be found in specialty food stores, Italian stores, and sometimes in regular grocery stores. Don't skimp - the best comes in wooden boxes, and is sold in individual pieces by the pound at the Italian stores. NOTE: TIME DOES NOT INCLUDE OVERNIGHT SOAK TIME FOR THE SALT COD."

Original is 8 servings

Metric US

I've Tried It

Try Our Hands Free Cooking Mode

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Rinse cod under cold running water to remove surface salt. Place in large non-aluminum pot, cover with water, cover and refrigerate 24 hours, changing water several times.

Step 2

Pour off water, refill pot with clean water and boil cod until it flakes easily with fork, 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Step 3

Heat 3 tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium heat and saute onions until barely brown, 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Set aside.

Step 4

Drain cod and let cool. Flake into large bowl and remove any bones or bits of skin.

Step 5

Add onion-garlic mixture, nutmeg and white pepper to taste and remaining oil. Toss lightly. Pack mixture into well-oiled 13x9-inch pyrex dish. Top with potato slices.

Step 6

Lightly oil a baking sheet, place over casserole and invert. Carefully remove casserole dish to keep cod mixture intact. Cover with foil. Bake at 400 degrees 10 minutes, remove foil, then continue baking until cod is lightly toasted, about 10 more minutes.

Step 7

To serve, cut a square of cod and center on each of 6 to 8 serving plates. Drizzle with additional oil to moisten. Garnish with 2 egg halves, olives and parsley.