Fanesca – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Ecuador Servings: Serves 8
Ecuador Servings: Serves 8Fanesca is a rich, traditional Ecuadorian soup, often served during the Holy Week preceding Easter. This hearty dish is a celebration of harvest and collaboration, typically crafted with an abundance of grains, legumes, and bacalao (salted cod), symbolizing the diverse range of Ecuadorian produce. Typically regarded as a communal dish due to its extensive preparation process, Fanesca represents unity and shared cultural heritage. Its creamy, thick texture comes from pureed squash and milk, creating a soothing backdrop for the vibrant medley of corn, beans, and cheese.
Ingredients
- Salted cod – 500 g / 1 lb
- Milk – 4 cups / 960 ml
- Onion, chopped – 1 large / 300 g
- Garlic cloves, minced – 4 cloves / 20 g
- Pumpkin, peeled and cubed – 2 cups / 300 g
- Corn kernels – 2 cups / 330 g
- Lima beans – 1 cup / 150 g
- Green peas – 1 cup / 140 g
- Cabbage, shredded – 2 cups / 180 g
- Ground peanuts – 1/2 cup / 75 g
- Fresh cheese, crumbled – 1 cup / 150 g
- Annatto oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Salt – to taste
- White pepper – 1/2 tsp / 2 g
Instructions
- Soak the salted cod in water overnight, changing the water twice to reduce saltiness.
- In a large pot, heat annatto oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Introduce the cubed pumpkin and sauté for a few minutes.
- Pour in milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until pumpkin is tender.
- Puree the pumpkin-milk mixture until smooth.
- Return the mixture to the pot, adding the rehydrated cod, corn, lima beans, peas, and cabbage.
- Incorporate ground peanuts and stir well.
- Simmer on low until all ingredients are fully cooked and flavors meld together.
- Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Garnish with crumbled fresh cheese before serving.
Substitutions
- Salted cod -> Smoked haddock
- Pumpkin -> Butternut squash
- Fresh cheese -> Feta cheese
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a variety of beans for more complex flavors.
- Incorporate a hint of cumin for added depth.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro to enhance freshness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
