Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise

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This easy Portuguese baked cod recipe combines flaky cod, fried potatoes, onion, creamy mayonnaise, and grated cheese for a delicious and comforting family dinner.

Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise in a baking dish

If you’re looking for an easy and comforting way to prepare cod, this Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise is a delicious recipe to try. Flaky cod is combined with sautéed onion and layered with fried potatoes, then topped with creamy mayonnaise and grated cheese before baking until golden brown.

This Portuguese cod dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but also makes an impressive meal for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of tender cod, fried potatoes, onion, and creamy mayonnaise creates a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

Delicious and comforting recipes for cozy family dinners on those cold winter days when you’re craving a hearty meal to warm both body and soul: Portuguese Bean Stew with Poached Eggs (Feijoada), Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, and Baked Mashed Potatoes with Tuna. Three comforting and satisfying dishes that are perfect for gathering the family around the table.

Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise in a baking dish

Ingredients for Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise and Potatoes

Here you'll find all the ingredients needed to make this recipe:

Cod - The main protein, providing a soft and flaky texture and a delicious flavor.
Onion - Adds flavor to the cod and potato layers.
Mayonnaise - Creates a rich, creamy topping and helps keep the dish moist during baking.
Potatoes - Add a flavorful base with a soft interior and golden edges.
Olive oil - Used for sautéing the onion.
Pepper - Adds a gentle spicy touch and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Oregano - Provides a light herbal flavor that complements the cod and potatoes.
Grated cheese - Melts over the mayonnaise to create a delicious golden and flavorful crust.
Bay leaf - Infuses the cod with a subtle aromatic flavor while it cooks.
Salt - Enhances the flavors of the cod, potatoes, and other ingredients.
Vegetable oil - Used to fry the potatoes, helping them become tender on the inside and lightly golden and crisp on the outside.

Below you’ll find the correct measurement of all ingredients and the step-by-step guide for this recipe.

How to Make Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise and Potatoes

Step 1: Peel and wash the potatoes, then cut them into round slices. Season lightly with salt and fry in hot oil until lightly golden. Transfer the fried potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Step 2: Meanwhile, place the cod steaks in a saucepan with water and two bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 6 to 7 minutes.

Step 3: Turn off the heat and carefully remove the cod with a slotted spoon. Let it cool slightly, then remove the skin and bones. Flake the cod with a fork and set aside.

Step 4: In a saucepan, add the olive oil and the chopped onion. Stir with a wooden spoon and sauté over low heat until the onion start to turn slightly golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add the flaked cod and season with pepper and oregano. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF).

Step 6: In a baking dish, arrange a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of cod and another layer of potatoes. Spread the mayonnaise evenly over the top and sprinkle with grated cheese.

Step 7: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Serve warm with a fresh, healthy green salad.

Tips for Portuguese Baked Cod with Mayonnaise and Potatoes

• Desalt the cod properly. If using salt cod, this is the most important step. Excess salt can overpower the entire dish. Allow the cod to soak for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 8 to 12 hours.

• Let the potatoes drain well. After frying, place them on paper towels to remove excess oil and help prevent the finished dish from becoming greasy.

• Cook the onion slowly. Gently sautéing the onion until lightly golden develops more flavor without burning it.

• Bake properly. Bake until the mayonnaise and cheese are golden and bubbling. The browned topping adds a lot of flavor.

• Taste before adding salt. Salt cod and mayonnaise can both contain quite a bit of salt, so season carefully.

FAQs

What is Portuguese baked cod with mayonnaise?

Portuguese baked cod with mayonnaise is a comforting cod dish made with desalted cod, potatoes, onion, mayonnaise, and cheese. The ingredients are layered in a baking dish and baked until the top is golden and bubbling.

Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod?

Yes. You can use fresh cod fillets, although traditional Portuguese recipes often use desalted salt cod. If using fresh cod, adjust the amount of salt according to taste.

Do I need to soak salted cod before making this recipe?

Yes. If you are using traditional salted cod, it needs to be properly soaked and desalted before cooking. The soaking time depends on the thickness of the cod.

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes. Thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before cooking. If using frozen fresh cod rather than salted cod, you may need to adjust the seasoning.

Can I use homemade mayonnaise?

Absolutely. Homemade mayonnaise can give the dish an especially rich and creamy flavor.