Brandade –Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where we explore the flavors of a traditional dish featuring brandade. This creamy, delicious spread, made predominantly from salt cod, is beloved in many cultures. Today, we’ll recreate a perfect Feast of the Brandade, suitable for gatherings whether they be festive or intimate. Let’s dive into the experience of cooking and enjoying this savory dish!
Feast of the Brandade
This iconic dish not only serves as a great appetizer but also as a dish that elevates any gathering with its unique flavors. Below, you’ll find all the ingredients you need as well as the step-by-step instructions to whip this up effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salt cod
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Baguette or toast, for serving
Instructions:
- Start by soaking the salt cod in cold water for 24-48 hours, changing the water a couple of times. This helps to remove excess salt.
- Once soaked, drain and rinse the cod thoroughly. Place it in a pot with fresh water and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes or until it’s tender. Drain again and let it cool.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Flake the cooked cod and add it to the saucepan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is well blended. Cook for a few more minutes over low heat until it thickens, stirring frequently.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving dish.
- Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with slices of baguette or toast.
Enjoy your Feast of the Brandade as a delightful starter or a sharing dish with friends and family. The creamy texture combined with the delicious flavors of salt cod is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!