Bacalhau à lagareiro – 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: 
Portugal Servings: Serves 4
Portugal Servings: Serves 4Bacalhau à Lagareiro is an exquisite Portuguese seafood dish that celebrates the union of land and sea, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Portugal. This dish is famed for its rustic presentation and typically served during festive occasions or family gatherings. The core ingredient, bacalhau (salted cod), is revered in Portuguese cuisine. It is baked with aromatic garlic, generous amounts of olive oil, and served alongside roasted potatoes. The term ‘lagareiro’ refers to the workers in olive oil mills, highlighting the importance of olive oil in this recipe, signifying simplicity yet profound flavor.
Ingredients
- salted cod (bacalhau) – 4 fillets / 800 g
- olive oil – 1 cup / 240 ml
- garlic cloves – 8 cloves, crushed
- bay leaves – 2 leaves
- baby potatoes – 1 kg
- sea salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – handful, chopped
Instructions
- Soak the salted cod in cold water for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water every 8 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place the baby potatoes on a baking tray, sprinkle with sea salt, and bake for 40 minutes or until tender.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat, add crushed garlic, and bay leaves, and cook until the garlic is golden but not burnt.
- Place the desalted cod fillets in a baking dish, pour over the aromatic oil and bake for about 20 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven, slightly crush them with a fork and arrange around the cod.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Substitutions
- salted cod (bacalhau) -> fresh cod fillets
- olive oil -> avocado oil
- baby potatoes -> regular potatoes, cut into chunks
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
- Include roasted red peppers for additional color and sweetness.
- Introduce a splash of white wine to the olive oil mixture for depth.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
