African-style Fried Bacalao with Tomato

Ingredients

In this African adaptation, the traditional Spanish bacalao frito con tomate is transformed by incorporating African spices and flavors. The tomato sauce is infused with aromatic African spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, which give the dish a unique and vibrant flavor profile. Additionally, the cooking technique may vary slightly to accommodate the African culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Bacalao frito con tomate, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) bacalao (salted cod), soaked and deboned 500g (1.1 lb) bacalao (salted cod), soaked and deboned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the bacalao in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water every 6 hours to remove excess salt. Once soaked, rinse the bacalao under running water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. 2.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Season the bacalao with salt and pepper, then carefully place it in the skillet with the tomato sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
5. 5.
   Serve the fried bacalao with the tomato sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bacalao — Soaking the bacalao for 24 hours is crucial to remove excess salt and rehydrate the fish. Make sure to change the water every 6 hours for best results.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the tomato sauce.
• Serve the fried bacalao with a side of couscous or steamed rice to complete the African culinary experience.
• For a refreshing twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the fried bacalao just before serving.
• If you can't find bacalao, you can substitute it with any firm white fish, such as cod or haddock.
• To add a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some raisins or chopped dried apricots over the tomato sauce before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the African-style Fried Bacalao with Tomato as a main course, accompanied by a side of couscous or steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fried bacalao on a platter and spoon the tangy tomato sauce over it. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves on top for an attractive pop of color. Serve with the side dish and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Africa.