Croatian Bakalar - Christmas Eve Recipe

Get ready to embark on a truly special culinary journey this holiday season! If you're searching for the perfect christmas eve recipe that's steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor, look no further than Croatian Bakalar. This isn't just any good recipe for cod; it's a beloved `christmas eve dish` that brings families together across Croatia. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your adventure in the kitchen, we're here to guide you through making this `great cod recipe` that's both authentic and incredibly satisfying. We'll explore the classic "Bakalar na lešo" (cooked stockfish) and a creamy "Bakalar na bijelo" (white stew), ensuring you have a `recipe for traditional` Croatian Bakalar that will impress everyone at your festive table. Expect to work with beautiful `white cod recipe` preparations, infused with fragrant `garlic and parsley`, served alongside tender `potatoes and garlic` – a truly unforgettable `dish for christmas`. Let's dive into the heart of Croatian holiday cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (approx. 450g) dried, salted cod (see note on soaking)
• 2 lbs (approx. 900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 6-8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Water or vegetable broth for simmering

Directions

1. Soak the Cod (Crucial First Step!): This is the most important part of preparing dried, salted cod. Place the dried cod in a large bowl and cover it completely with cold water. Change the water at least 3-4 times a day for 2-3 days (48-72 hours). This process rehydrates the fish and removes excess salt. The cod should feel soft and pliable. Once soaked, drain the cod, remove any skin and bones, and cut it into large, serving-sized pieces.
2. Par-Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the potato chunks with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat ¼ cup of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced garlic and bay leaf, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
4. Layer the Dish: Add the par-boiled potatoes to the pot, spreading them evenly. Place the soaked and prepared cod pieces on top of the potatoes.
5. Simmer: Pour in enough water or vegetable broth to just cover the cod and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and the potatoes are very tender.
6. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Gently stir in the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil and most of the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Some traditional recipes call for mashing a few potatoes and cod pieces directly in the pot to thicken the sauce slightly. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining fresh parsley.
7. Bakalar na Bijelo (White Cod Stew) IngredientsThis creamy, mashed cod dish is a fantastic alternative, often served as a spread or appetizer.
   1. 1 lb (approx. 450g) dried, salted cod (soaked and prepared as above)
   2. 1 lb (approx. 450g) potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
   3. 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
   4. ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (or more, to taste)
   5. ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
   6. Salt and white pepper to taste
   7. Milk or cooking water (optional, for creaminess)
8. Bakalar na Bijelo (White Cod Stew) Step-by-Step Instructions
9. Soak the Cod: Follow the same soaking instructions as for Bakalar na Lešo (2-3 days, changing water frequently). Once soaked, drain, remove skin and bones, and flake the cod.
10. Cook Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
11. Cook Cod: In a separate pot, place the flaked cod and cover with fresh water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cod is very tender and easily breaks apart. Drain thoroughly, reserving some of the cooking water if you want a creamier consistency.
12. Combine and Mash: In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes and cooked, flaked cod. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, and chopped parsley.
13. Mash to Desired Consistency: Using a potato masher, fork, or even a hand mixer (for a very smooth texture), mash the mixture. Add a splash of the reserved cod cooking water or a little milk if you desire a creamier consistency.
14. Season: Season generously with salt and white pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The garlic and olive oil are key here!
15. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature, often with crusty bread for dipping.