Embark on a gastronomic adventure with Croatian Bakalar, a dish steeped in centuries-old tradition and rich cultural heritage. This savory delicacy, featuring salted cod as its star ingredient, reflects the coastal influence and culinary ingenuity of Croatia. Dive into the history and preparation techniques of Bakalar, where salted cod is meticulously soaked, cooked, and seasoned to perfection. Explore the nuances of this beloved dish, as it intertwines with local customs and seasonal festivities. Whether enjoyed as a hearty stew or a flavorsome spread, Croatian Bakalar promises a taste of authenticity and a celebration of culinary craftsmanship. Join us as we unravel the secrets of this cherished dish, inviting you to savor the essence of Croatian cuisine and the warmth of its hospitality.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) dried salted codfish
• 1 pound (450g) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1- Prepare the salted codfish by soaking it in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Once soaked, drain the codfish and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

2- In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are just tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3- In a separate large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

4- Add the drained codfish pieces to the pot with the onion and garlic. Stir gently to combine.

5- Add the cooked potatoes to the pot, along with the sweet paprika, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the ingredients with the spices.

6- Pour in enough water to barely cover the ingredients in the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors meld together and the codfish is tender.

7- Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves from the pot.

8- Serve the Bakalar hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread for dipping and savoring the delicious flavors. Enjoy this traditional Croatian dish with family and friends, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the Adriatic coast.

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the Croatian Bakalar recipe:

Dried salted codfish (per 100g):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 62g
• Fat: 0.7g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 17,000mg (varies based on soaking)

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and calcium, important for bone health.

Potatoes (per 100g, raw):

• Calories: 77
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 6mg

benefits:

• Good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health.
• Contains potassium, important for maintaining electrolyte balance and muscle function.

Extra virgin olive oil (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 119
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Contains antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties and may protect against chronic diseases.
• May improve cholesterol levels and help regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic (per clove, about 3g):

• Calories: 4
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 1mg

benefits:

• Known for its antimicrobial properties, garlic can help fight off infections and boost the immune system.
• Contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Has antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative damage in the body.

Onion (per 100g):

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Sodium: 4mg

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, including quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that promote gut health and digestion.
• Provides vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, important for overall health.

Sweet paprika (per teaspoon):

• Calories: 6
• Carbohydrates: 1.3g
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Sodium: 1mg

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.