Traditional Spanish cuisine offers a variety of delicious ways to prepare cod, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of different regions. Garlic cod, a recipe often overlooked in favor of more famous dishes, belongs to the heart of central and northern Spain, from León to Cuenca. It stands out as a tasty and healthy option to enjoy this fish.
Indeed, there are regional variants sharing the same core idea, yet the essence remains consistent. With the right steps, achieving the perfect dish is straightforward.
Garlic cod ingredients for four people
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Four cod fillets
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One onion
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One red bell pepper
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One green bell pepper
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4 garlic cloves
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Ketchup
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Optional: extra red pepper for heat or color
detailing
The process begins with preparing the cod fillets and desalting them if needed, whether using store‑bought saltless cod or one soaked at home. Patience here pays off in a smoother texture and cleaner flavor.
Garlic is sliced and briefly fried in a pan with a modest amount of oil. The cod fillets are added next and seared on both sides, starting with the side that shows the spine. Depending on thickness, about three minutes per side yields a tender finish. Once browned, the fillets are removed and kept warm while the vegetables take center stage.
Onions and peppers are prepared in advance and added to the pan. The red pepper is included for color and sweetness, and the mixture is sautéed until everything becomes soft and fragrant. This is the moment to stir in ketchup, using a measured amount that suits taste, whether it is homemade or store‑bought. A typical amount is around four tablespoons or about 60 grams, but adjustments can be made to taste and desired thickness of the sauce.
The cod is returned to the pan, broken into portions of a convenient size, and combined with the glossy vegetable mixture. It cooks together for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cod to absorb the sauce. When everything is hot and well coated, the dish is ready to plate and serve with accompaniments of choice, such as crusty bread, rice, or potatoes.