This easy Portuguese cod stew is simmered in a rich, flavorful broth that combines cod, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and olive oil in one delicious meal. A comforting one-pot recipe perfect for any occasion.
If you love traditional recipes full of rich flavors and vibrant colors, this Portuguese cod stew is one you won't want to miss. Made with tender cod, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and olive oil, it's a complete and comforting one-pot meal that's perfect for family dinners or cozy winter evenings. Best of all, it takes just 15 minutes to prepare. Simply layer the ingredients, let them simmer gently, and enjoy an authentic Portuguese classic with minimal effort.
If you enjoy classic Mediterranean dishes with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, this easy cod stew deserves a place in your recipe collection. If you're looking for more traditional Portuguese recipes, be sure to try this delicious Portuguese Pork and Clams (Carne de Porco à Alentejana), Portuguese Octopus Rice, and comforting Caldo Verde (Easy Portuguese Kale Soup). These three authentic dishes showcase the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine and bring the taste of Portugal straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Portuguese Cod Stew (Caldeirada de Bacalhau)
Here you'll find all the ingredients needed to make this recipe:
- Salt cod - The main ingredient of the dish, providing a tender fish with the characteristic flavor that makes this traditional Portuguese stew so comforting.
- Tomato - Adds natural flavor, color, and richness, creating a flavorful broth as it cooks.
- Onion - Creates an aromatic base that enhances the flavor of the stew.
- Olive oil - Provides richness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- White wine - Balances the richness of the olive oil and enhances the cod's flavor.
- Pepper - Adds a slightly spicy touch to that complements the fish and vegetables.
- Small potatoes - Become tender as they cook, absorbing the flavorful broth and making the stew substantial and satisfying.
- Red pepper and green pepper - They add freshness, color and the characteristic flavor of Portuguese stews.
- Garlic - Infuses the stew with a rich and flavorful aroma that pairs perfectly with the cod and olive oil.
- Salt - Enhances all the flavors and seasons the stew. If using salted cod, adjust the amount carefully after tasting.
Below you’ll find the correct measurement of all ingredients and the step-by-step guide for this recipe.
How to Make Portuguese Cod Stew (Caldeirada de Bacalhau)
Step 1: Cut the cod steaks into pieces.
Step 2: In a large pot, add the sliced onions, halved peeled potatoes, cod, peeled tomatoes cut into small chunks, pepper strips, chopped garlic, salt, pepper, white wine, and olive oil, layering the ingredients evenly to achieve the best flavor during cooking.
Step 3: Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cod is fully cooked.
Step 4: Turn off the heat and serve immediately with slices of rustic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Variations
• Add Fresh Herbs - Finish the stew with chopped parsley or coriander for extra freshness and color.
• Make It Spicier - Add paprika or sliced fresh chili peppers.
• Add More Tomato Flavor - Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato paste or tomato pulp for a richer broth.
• Seafood Version - Add shrimp or clams during the last few minutes of cooking for a seafood-rich variation.
• Different White Fish - If you don't have salt cod, prepare the stew with fresh cod, hake, or another firm white fish.
Tips for Portuguese Cod Stew
• Be sure to soak the cod - Soak the cod for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water several times.
• Use ripe tomatoes - Fresh, ripe tomatoes create a naturally sweet and flavorful broth.
• Layer the ingredients - Traditional Portuguese cod stew is often prepared by layering the vegetables and cod instead of stirring constantly, which helps the fish remain intact.
• Cook over low heat - Cooking over low heat allows the flavors to blend perfectly without overcooking the cod or making the potatoes mushy.
• Avoid overcooking the fish - Cod cooks quickly. Once it flakes easily with a fork, it's ready to serve.
• Taste before adding salt - Even after soaking, salt cod can still be quite salty. Always taste the broth before seasoning.
• Use extra virgin olive oil - Since olive oil is one of the main ingredients, a good-quality extra virgin olive oil makes all the difference in the final flavor.
FAQs
What is Portuguese cod stew?
Portuguese cod stew, known as Caldeirada de Bacalhau, is a traditional dish made by slowly cooking salt cod with potatoes, tomatoes, onions, peppers, garlic, olive oil, and white wine until everything becomes tender and flavorful.
Do I have to soak the salt cod?
Yes. Salt cod should be soaked in cold water for about 24 hours, changing the water every 8 to 12 hours to remove excess salt before cooking.
Can I use fresh cod instead?
Yes. Fresh cod works well, although the traditional recipe uses salt cod for its distinctive flavor. If using fresh cod, season the stew with a little more salt.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to keep the cod tender.
What should I serve with Portuguese cod stew?
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
You May Also Like
- Homemade salt cod with cream
- Homemade salt cod fritters
- Salt cod in tomato sauce
- Cod with potatoes
- Cod soup
- Traditional baked cod
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Portuguese Cod Stew (Caldeirada de Bacalhau)
This easy Portuguese cod stew is simmered in a rich, flavorful broth that combines cod, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and olive oil in one delicious meal. A comforting one-pot recipe perfect for any occasion.
- About 1 kg (2 1/4 pounds) salt cod, soaked for 24 hours
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1 large onion
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) olive oil
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) white wine
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 kg (2 1/4 pounds) small potatoes
- 1/2 red pepper
- 1/2 green pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Cut the cod steaks into pieces.
- In a large pot, add the sliced onions, halved peeled potatoes, cod, peeled tomatoes cut into small chunks, pepper strips, chopped garlic, salt, pepper, white wine, and olive oil, layering the ingredients evenly to achieve the best flavor during cooking.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cod is fully cooked.
- Turn off the heat and serve immediately with slices of rustic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
