Dive into the vibrant world of Greek cuisine with the tantalizing flavors of Traditional Greek Roasted Salted Cod with Onions, Tomatoes, and Raisins, also known as Bakaliaro Plaki. This dish not only celebrates the rich maritime heritage of Greece but also offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s bursting with flavor? Let’s uncover the secrets to creating this culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds salted cod, soaked overnight
- 2 onions, sliced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the salted cod. Rinse the cod under cold running water to remove excess salt. Place the cod in a large bowl, cover it with cold water, and let it soak in the refrigerator overnight. Change the water at least twice during the soaking process to ensure the cod is adequately desalted.
- After soaking, drain the cod and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the cod into serving-sized pieces, about 4 to 6 inches long.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the cod cooks evenly and develops a nice golden color.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from browning too much.
- Next, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the onions. Stir well to combine, and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the tomato and onion mixture is ready, add the soaked and dried cod pieces to the skillet. Gently nestle the cod into the mixture, ensuring that each piece is covered with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the cod and sauce. The sweetness of the raisins will complement the savory flavors of the dish.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The top should be slightly golden and the sauce bubbling around the edges.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve the Traditional Greek Roasted Salted Cod with Onions, Tomatoes, and Raisins hot, alongside crusty bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Desalting the Cod: Make sure to soak the salted cod for at least 24 hours, changing the water multiple times to achieve the right level of saltiness. This step is crucial for a balanced flavor.
- Sautéing the Onions: Don’t rush the process of sautéing the onions. Take your time to cook them until they are soft and translucent; this will enhance their sweetness and deepen the overall flavor of the dish.
- Tomato Mixture: Allow the diced tomatoes to cook down properly with the onions. This will create a rich sauce that beautifully complements the cod and adds moisture to the dish.
- Layering the Ingredients: When adding the cod to the skillet, gently nestle it into the tomato mixture. This ensures that the fish absorbs the flavors while cooking.
- Raisin Sweetness: Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the cod before roasting. Their sweetness will caramelize slightly during baking, adding a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
- Resting Time: After taking the dish out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making every bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce or serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
