Tuga Pops − Saturday, November 25, 2017, 9 Years ago in Soup Recipes
4 out of 5 with 68 ratings

Portuguese Cod Stew | Authentic One Pot Flavorful Recipe

Enjoy a taste of Portugal with our cod stew, packed with tender bacalhau, creamy potatoes, and fresh veggies in a garlic and white wine broth.
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40 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 25 min

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Get ready to dive into a delicious portuguese cod stew that’s all about cozy, comforting flavors. This bacalhau and potato combo features tender fish and savory aromatics, making it a hearty dish you’ll crave. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! The blend of white wine and paprika will transport you straight to the coast, right from your kitchen.

Tips for Success

To enhance the flavor of the cod, soak the fillets in milk for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to draw out any fishy taste and keeps the fish moist.

When preparing the potatoes, cut them into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly. If you want a creamier texture, consider using waxy potatoes instead of starchy ones.

A common mistake is adding salt too early during the cooking process. Wait until the end to adjust the seasoning, as the cod and potatoes will release some moisture that can concentrate the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute cod with another type of fish in this stew?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other firm white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia. Just ensure that the fish you're using has a similar texture, and adjust cooking times accordingly.

How should I store leftovers of the portuguese cod stew?

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure it's properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

What should I do if my potatoes are not cooking through in the stew?

If your potatoes are not cooking through, they may have been cut too thick or cooked on too low heat. You can increase the heat slightly and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness. Alternatively, you can pre-cook the potatoes briefly before adding them to the stew.

Recommended Drink Pairings

  • Vinho Verde: This light and crisp Portuguese white wine complements the cod and enhances the dish's freshness.
  • Alvarinho: A full-bodied white wine with citrus notes that pairs well with the richness of the olive oil and cod.
  • Sparkling Water: The effervescence cleanses the palate, balancing the hearty flavors of the stew.
  • Chardonnay: A medium-bodied white wine with buttery notes that harmonizes with the potatoes and garlic.
  • Green Tea: The subtle bitterness and earthy tones provide a refreshing contrast to the dish's richness.

Ingredients

3 cod fillets (500g / 1.1 lbs)8 medium potatoes (1kg / 2.2 lbs)1 large onion or 2 small (200g / 7 oz)3 large ripe tomatoes (450g / 1 lb)1/2 red pepper (75g / 2.6 oz)4 cloves of garlic1 bunch of coriander (30g / 1 oz)3/4 cup (180ml / 6 fl oz) white wine (180g)3/4 cup (180ml / 6 fl oz) olive oil (180g)1 teaspoon (2g) paprika2 bay leavesWhite pepper to tasteSalt to taste

Equipment:

Large heavy-bottomed potChef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsVegetable peeler

Directions

  1. Pour the olive oil into the bottom of a large pot then add a layer of thinly sliced onions followed by a layer of thinly sliced potatoes.
  2. Place the cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces, on top of the potato layer.
  3. Add another layer of potatoes and finish with the tomatoes (peeled and chopped), sliced garlic, broken bay leaves, thin strips of red pepper, and the bunch of coriander.
  4. Mix the paprika into the white wine and drizzle the mixture over the layers, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium heat.
  6. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Adapted from a Recipe by:  Julieta Venâncio

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
385 kcal
Fat
18 g
Carbs
32 g
Protein
24 g

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Reviews (7)

spotanjo3
spotanjo3
My favorite all the time. Never got tired of it. Perfect with Portuguese corn bread. Yours is a little bit different from grandma tradition version. Looks good, thought.
1 Year ago, Friday, February 14, 2025

Valerie
Valerie
Are piri piri sauce and pimenta moida the same?
2 Years ago, Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
No they are not.
2 Years ago, Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Jehoiakim Arnold
Jehoiakim Arnold
Delicious! My 6th time making it. I used a 15 oz can of chopped tomatoes because the fresh tomatoes don't taste like tomatoes sometimes and I used fresh parsley. For first timers, don't worry, there is enough liquid to cook this.
4 Years ago, Friday, April 15, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
That is awesome, thanks for the feedback and tip.👍👍
4 Years ago, Friday, April 15, 2022

Madeline Simmons
Madeline Simmons
I notice u use cod fillets in your recipes.....this is the regular salted cod that needs to b soaked etc...can't use regular (COD) fish.,,.and does one have to use the wine?
Previously I had asked if u had a cod fish recipe using chick peas like in layers w/potatoes eggs etc
Thank u for all u do...it's really good food and so underrated ...we have only one cooking show here on PBS...Maria's Portuguese table..and I just love how people have suddenly found out about kale...duh...anyway thanks again
4 Years ago, Sunday, April 10, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops

Hi Madeline, now I know what recipe your looking for, is this it: https://www.portugueserecipes.ca/recipe/1008/14/Paula-s-Portuguese-Stewed-Cod-Recipe

4 Years ago, Sunday, April 10, 2022

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a