Codfish with Cream (Portuguese Bacalhau com Natas)

Bacalhau com Natas is a favorite in Portugal. It mixes salted cod, creamy sauce, and crispy potatoes in one tasty casserole.

Families often make it for gatherings and special occasions. It’s filling and comforting, showing off how great bacalhau can be.

This dish has tender cod, creamy sauce, and a crispy top that you can’t resist. It takes a little work to make Bacalhau com Natas, but the flavor is totally worth it.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salted cod (bacalhau), soaked for 24-48 hours, changing water every 6-8 hours
• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional, use mozzarella or a mild cheese)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Rinse the soaked cod.
4. Put it in a pot with fresh water and simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender.
5. Take it out, let it cool a bit, and shred it into bite-size pieces, taking out any bones and skin.
6. In a big skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
7. Fry the diced potatoes until they are golden and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
9. In the same skillet, cook the onions and garlic until they’re soft and smell good, about 5 minutes.
10. Add the shredded cod and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
11. Remove from heat and set aside.
12. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
13. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden.
14. Slowly whisk in the milk so there are no lumps, then add the cream.
15. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
16. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
17. In a big bowl, mix the cod mixture, potatoes, and sauce.
18. Be gentle so you don’t break the potatoes.
19. Pour everything into the baking dish.
20. If you want cheese, sprinkle it on top.
21. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
22. Let it cool a bit before serving.
23. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.