Portuguese Salt Cod and Chickpea
Experience the flavors of Portugal with our Authentic Portuguese Salt Cod and Chickpea Salad. Delight in the harmonious combination of tender salt cod, hearty chickpeas, and flavorful black olives, all complemented by a zesty dressing. Savor the taste of Portugal in every bite – try this traditional dish today!
Ingredients
- 1 pound salt cod desalted
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cloves garlic crushed
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas or canned chickpeas, rinsed
- 1 small yellow onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Sliced hard-boiled egg
- 6-8 Black olives to garnish
Instructions
- Begin by ensuring your salt cod has been properly desalted. If not, soak the 1-pound salt cod in cold water for 24-48 hours, changing the water 2-3 times a day. The cod should taste mildly salty when ready to use.
- In a large pot, add the desalted salt cod, along with 1 bay leaf and 1 crushed garlic clove. Cover the cod with water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
- Remove the cod from the water, let it cool, and then flake it into large chunks, ensuring any bones or skin are removed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked cod, 2 cups of cooked chickpeas (or canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed), thinly sliced red onion, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (if using).
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar (adjust to taste), the remaining crushed garlic clove, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour the dressing over the cod and chickpea mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even and delightful coating.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish, and if you like, add a lovely garnish of slices from a hard-boiled egg and black olives. Finally, serve your mouthwatering Portuguese Salt Cod and Chickpea Salad alongside a simple green salad, some delightful olives, a hunk of crusty bread, and a perfectly chilled glass of vinho verde.
- Enjoy your Portuguese Salt Cod and Chickpea Salad!
Notes
Helpful Recipe Notes for Perfect Portuguese Salt Cod and Chickpea Salad:
- Desalting the Cod: Properly desalting the salt cod is crucial. Soak it for 24-48 hours, changing the water 2-3 times a day until it tastes mildly salty. The desalting time may vary depending on the thickness and saltiness of the cod. Taste a small piece to ensure it's not overly salty before using.
- Cooking the Cod: When simmering the cod, be mindful not to overcook it. Once it easily flakes with a fork, it's ready. Overcooking can result in a dry and less flavorful texture.
- Flaking the Cod: After cooking, allow the cod to cool slightly before flaking it into large chunks. Carefully remove any bones and skin to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
- Optional Cilantro: If you decide to use cilantro, remember that its flavor can be intense for some. Adjust the quantity based on your preference. You can also substitute it with parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.
- Yellow Onion Soak: If you find yellow red onion too pungent, soak the thinly sliced onion in cold water for a few minutes. This can mellow the flavor while retaining the crunch.
- Dressing Customization: The dressing can be adjusted to your taste. Start with the recommended measurements and gradually add more olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper as needed. This allows you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garnish Flexibility: The sliced hard-boiled egg garnish is optional. If you choose to include it, it not only enhances the presentation but also adds richness to the dish. Adjust according to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: To complete the Portuguese dining experience, serve the salad with a side of simple green salad, olives, crusty bread, and a chilled glass of vinho verde. These accompaniments complement the flavors beautifully.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Consider making it in advance and refrigerating it for a convenient and flavorful meal option.
- Customization Options: Get creative with your salad by incorporating traditional Portuguese elements like tomato grapes or thinly sliced red onions. Additionally, adding pimento paste can lend a delightful smoky sweetness to the dish.
