Easter is approaching, and traditions call for gathering with family and friends to share meals. A familiar culinary moment for many is a dessert that sweetens the holiday, while a satisfying main course also deserves a place on the table. One dish that fits this occasion is a hearty Vigil Potaj, a comforting casserole that blends legumes with cod to honor dietary practices linked to the season.
This casserole uses cod in place of meat, aligning with traditional rules associated with these dates.
If you’re unsure how to make it, here are simple steps to prepare the dish and impress your guests.
Chickpeas form the chunky base of the casserole.
Contents
(Approximate quantities for six people)
- 1 leek
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 1 Italian green pepper
- 300 g cod
- 2 eggs
- 300 g chickpeas
- fresh spinach
- 500 ml fish stock or smoked stock
The casserole proves that a meatless option can still be hearty by featuring cod as the main protein.
Recipe
Boil the eggs for ten minutes, then peel and set them aside. Slice the cod into long, thin strips. Chop the spinach into small pieces and prepare the sauce. Sauté onions and green peppers until soft, then add the leeks and cook for another ten minutes before stirring in the grated tomatoes and fish stock.
Next, blend the mix briefly with a mixer and return it to the pan. When it comes back to a boil, add the spinach and cod, letting everything simmer for a short while. Stir in the cooked chickpeas and cook for a minute or so. If using dried chickpeas, soak them the night before.
Finish by removing from heat, give the pot a gentle shake to distribute the ingredients, and place the boiled eggs on top for serving. The Vigil Potaj is ready to enjoy.
Lentil dishes have a long tradition in the Alicante province, where regional variations celebrate local produce and cooking methods. This recipe echoes that heritage, emphasizing simple flavors and nourishing textures that suit springtime feasts.
As the pot thickens and the aroma fills the kitchen, guests will notice the balance between the creamy cod, the soft vegetables, and the earthy chickpeas. The eggs add protein and a pleasant contrast to the sauce, making the dish complete and satisfying for a family gathering or a festive table shared with friends.