- **Spanish Cod (Bacalao)**: The main star of the dish, ensuring it is fully cured and has been soaked to remove the salt.
- **Tomatoes**: Fresh or canned tomatoes, offering a burst of natural acidity that complements the cod's flavor.
- **Onions**: Finely chopped onions for added depth of flavor, ensuring they are soft but not caramelized.
- **Green Peppers (Pimientos)**: Either green bell peppers or piquillo peppers, providing a mild to medium heat and vibrant color.
- **Red Bell Peppers (Pimientos de Padrón)**: Optional, these can add a nice crunch and slight spiciness if desired.
- **Garlic**: Minced garlic for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- **Olive Oil**: Extra virgin olive oil is essential, used both for sautéing vegetables and as part of the sauce.
- **White Wine**: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can be used to deglaze the pan and add a subtle alcohol flavor.
- **Bay Leaves**: For adding aromatic notes that enhance the overall taste without overpowering.
- **Paprika (Pimentón)**: Both sweet and smoked paprika for a rich, smoky flavor, ensuring you use Spanish brands if possible for authenticity.
- **Salt and Black Pepper**: To taste, adjusting to balance with the other ingredients.
- **Fresh Herbs**: Optional herbs like parsley or cilantro can be used for garnish, adding freshness and color.
- **Cumin Seeds (Granos de Cumin)**: A small amount of cumin seeds for an authentic Mexican twist that adds a warm, earthy flavor.
By including these SEO-friendly keywords in your list, you ensure that the content is not only informative but also optimized for search engines, making it easier for users to find recipes and ingredients related to Spanish cod with a Mexican influence.
Bacalao Espanol is a traditional Spanish dish that involves salt-cured cod fish, which is then cooked in a rich tomato sauce with aromatic vegetables and spices. This version adds a unique twist by incorporating Mexican flavors to create a fusion dish that's both comforting and delicious.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) salted cod fillet
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
#### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
- Bacalao Espanol recipe
- Spanish cod dishes
- Mexican flavors in Spanish cuisine
- Cod with tomato sauce
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Prepare the Cod:**
- Start by soaking the salted cod fillet in cold water for at least 24 hours to remove excess salt.
- Change the water every few hours, and after soaking, pat the fish dry with paper towels.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:**
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Spices:**
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the prepared cod fillet and the bay leaf. Ensure it is fully submerged in the sauce.
4. **Simmer the Cod:**
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the cod cook for about 20-30 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
5. **Serve:**
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, potatoes, or green beans.
### Tips for Perfect Bacalao Espanol:
- Ensure you use high-quality salted cod to start; this will help achieve better results.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences—add more cumin for a stronger Mexican flavor profile.
This recipe combines traditional Spanish cooking techniques with vibrant Mexican flavors, creating an exciting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a hearty meal or special occasion, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends!
#### SEO-Friendly Meta Description:
Explore the rich flavors of Bacalao Espanol (Spanish Cod) with a twist from Mexico! Discover how to make this comforting cod dish in a tomato sauce packed with aromatic vegetables and spices. Perfect for your next dinner party or cozy evening at home.
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