Salt cod with polenta
Salt cod with polenta is a classic dish from the Veneto region of Italy, but well-loved across more or less the whole of the peninsula. The only "nuisance" with this recipe, if we can call it that, is that you have to wait for the salt cod to soak for a lengthy period; alternatively, you could simply buy the non-salty dried version of cod. Then, after the soaking, you need to carefully remove the skin and bones. But having made these reasonably simply preparations, it's downhill all the way and in just a few further steps you'll have yourself a really succulent dish!
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Soak the salt cod in fresh water for three days, changing the water every day. Then rinse the fish, remove the skin and all the bones, and then cut it into pieces. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a frying pan. Add the cod and continue cooking. After about 15 minutes, add the anchovy fillets and the white wine, cooking for another 20 minutes. Finally, add the tomato paste and a couple of ladles of the water in which the cod was soaked. Adjust the salt if necessary, bring to the boil and then simmer the sauce until reduced to just the right consistency. Separately, prepare a good, slow polenta and serve with the prepared cod. If you wish, add chopped parsley.
Step by step
|
View the step by step
|
Skin and remove the bones from the cod
|
|
View the step by step
|
Soften the garlic and onion in a little oil
|
|
View the step by step
|
Cook the salt cod, then add the wine and the anchovy
|
|
View the step by step
|
Add the tomato concentrate and two tablespoons of the cod soaking water
|
|
View the step by step
|
Continue the cooking until the sauce is reduced to the right consistency
|
|
View the step by step
|
Serve with some lovely, slow-ccoked polenta
|
Additional information
Cod with polenta and potatoes
One of the tastiest variations of cod with polenta is certainly the one that includes the addition of potatoes. This dish is enriched with flavor and texture, creating a perfect combination between the tender cod and the soft potatoes. To prepare it, after cooking the cod following the traditional recipe, you can boil the potatoes and mash them, then combine them with the cod in the pan during the last minutes of cooking. This trick not only makes the dish more substantial but also allows the potatoes to absorb the flavors of the cod, creating a truly delicious harmony of tastes. Serve it all with polenta, which will be a perfect accompaniment, making the meal complete and satisfying.
Cod with Venetian polenta
Cod with Venetian polenta is a classic of the gastronomic tradition of Veneto, where the cod is cooked in a slightly different way compared to other regions. Here, the cod is often prepared with the addition of milk and herbs such as rosemary and bay leaf, which give it a unique and enveloping flavor. The polenta, typical of this preparation, is usually creamier, thanks to the use of butter and grated cheese, making it a rich and flavorful accompaniment. This version not only enhances the cod but also offers an interesting contrast of textures and flavors, perfect for those who love traditional dishes rich in history.
Light cod with polenta without anchovies
For those who wish to enjoy cod with polenta in a lighter version, it is possible to omit the anchovies and reduce the use of oil and wine. By using a steaming method for the cod and preparing the polenta with water instead of milk, it is possible to achieve a nutritious dish that is lower in calories. This variant is ideal for those following a low-calorie diet or for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor. Adding spices like black pepper or aromatic herbs like parsley can enhance the dish without weighing it down, making it still tasty and satisfying.
Benefits of cod and nutritional values
Cod is a food rich in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. This fish is also a good source of omega-3, essential fatty acids that contribute to heart health and improve cognitive functions. Additionally, cod is rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. On average, 100 grams of cooked cod provides about 105 calories, making it a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain their figure. Paired with polenta, the dish offers a nutritional balance that satisfies both the palate and dietary needs.
Can cod with polenta be frozen?
Many wonder if it is possible to freeze cod with polenta. The answer is yes, but with some precautions. It is advisable to freeze the cod before cooking, as once cooked, the texture may change and become less pleasant. If you have already prepared the dish, you can still freeze it, but it is better to separate the cod from the polenta to preserve its quality. Make sure to use airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and to maintain flavor. When you decide to consume it, it is important to thaw it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it to maintain the tenderness of the fish and the creaminess of the polenta.