Best Easy Baccalà della Vigilia Recipe

Salt cod prepared for Christmas Eve in various styles is Italy's most sacred holiday fish. This high protein mediterranean dish is central to family Vigilia celebrations nationwide.

Cook 180 min Difficulty NORMAL 215 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • salt cod (baccalà), soaked and rinsed 2 lbs
  • yellow potatoes 3 pieces
  • onion 1 pieces
  • plum tomatoes, peeled and chopped 1 cup
  • fresh parsley, chopped 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 0.25 cup
  • garlic, minced 3 cloves
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • capers, rinsed 2 tbsp
  • salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 15 g 28%
Protein 25 g 47%
Fat 5 g 25%
Serving size 175g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24–48 hours, changing the water every 8 hours to remove excess salt.

  2. 2

    Cut the soaked cod into 2-inch pieces. Peel and thickly slice potatoes; dice the onion.

  3. 3

    In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and onions; cook until onions are translucent but not browned, about 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Layer the potatoes, cod pieces, and tomatoes into the pan. Sprinkle with black pepper, capers, and parsley.

  5. 5

    Cover and simmer gently on low heat for 35–45 minutes, occasionally spooning pan juices over the fish, until potatoes are tender and cod flakes easily. Adjust salt only if needed at the end to avoid over-seasoning.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star ingredient is salted cod (baccalà), which defines the recipe's authentic flavor and texture. Its unique briny and delicate flake set the dish apart and pay homage to traditional Italian Christmas Eve celebrations.
Q. How does heat control affect the outcome?
Gentle simmering on low heat is critical. This slow, covered cooking ensures the cod remains moist and flaky without breaking apart while letting flavors meld. Too much heat can cause the fish to dry or toughen.
Q. How can I prevent the cod from becoming too salty or mushy?
To avoid excess saltiness or mushiness, soak the cod for 24–48 hours, frequently changing the water. Only add extra salt at the end, after tasting, and handle the cod carefully to keep its flaky texture intact.
Q. How does this recipe rank in nutrition?
Each serving (175g) contains about 215 kcal, 25g protein (47%), 15g carbohydrates (28%), and 5g fat (25%). It's a high-protein, moderate-carb dish full of Mediterranean ingredients, making it both nutritious and flavorful.
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