Bacalao al Pil Pil is a true gem of Spanish cuisine that brings the essence of the Basque region into your home. This dish showcases the delicate flavors of desalted cod gently cooked in olive oil, infused with rich garlic and a hint of cayenne pepper. The beauty lies in its simplicity, allowing each ingredient to shine while creating a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the fish. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for family meals or impressing guests with minimal effort.Â
The process of creating this dish is a culinary delight, where the gentle cooking technique transforms the cod into a succulent centerpiece, enhanced by the aromatic garlic. Join the ranks of home chefs who enjoy the luxurious taste of this traditional recipe, making every dining experience feel special. Enjoy Bacalao al Pil Pil with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce, and feel the warmth of Spanish culinary tradition envelop you.
- In a suitable pot, pour enough high-quality olive oil to completely cover the desalted cod fillets. Add the whole peeled garlic cloves and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Place the pot over very low heat for about 45 minutes, allowing the garlic to poach slowly until it colors lightly without burning. Once done, drain the garlic and set it aside, leaving the oil in the pot.
- With the oil warm, gently introduce the desalted cod fillets into the pot, skin side up, and allow them to cook for about 10 minutes. Be cautious not to overcook the fish.
- Carefully remove the cod and transfer it to another similar pot. Add just a pinch of the reserved olive oil. Place this pot over low heat and rock it back and forth gently to incorporate the gelatin from the cod with the oil, creating a luscious sauce.
- Gradually add more warm oil while continuing to move the pot to ensure the sauce emulsifies properly, avoiding a thick consistency.
- Once the sauce has formed, return the pieces of cod to the pot and adorn them with the previously poached garlic cloves. Serve immediately to enjoy the rich, succulent flavors of this traditional Spanish dish.
