No. 52. Merluzzo In Salamoia (cod) Recipe

The Cook's Decameron: A Study In Taste For Italian Dishes

History of Merluzzo In Salamoia (Cod):

Merluzzo In Salamoia, also known as Cod in Saltwater, is an Italian dish that has a rich history. This traditional recipe has been enjoyed for generations and is often prepared during special occasions and festive gatherings. Cod, hake, whiting, or red mullet are commonly used for this dish, creating a delightful seafood flavor.

Fun fact: Did you know that cod has been a staple food in many coastal countries for centuries? It was particularly important in Italy, where it played a significant role in the cuisine of coastal regions. Cod was readily available and often preserved by salting, making it an accessible and nutritious source of protein.

Now, let's dive into the delicious recipe for Merluzzo In Salamoia:

Ingredients:
- Cod fillets (or hake, whiting, or red mullet fillets)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- Fresh marjoram leaves, finely chopped
- 1 turnip, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh chervil, finely chopped
- 2 cloves
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of cream
- 1 egg yolk

Instructions:

1. In a stewpan, combine a salt-spoonful of salt, chopped onions, a little parsley, marjoram, mint, chervil, diced turnip, sliced mushrooms, and the heads of two cloves.

2. Add a cupful of milk to the stewpan and simmer the mixture on low heat for half an hour. This will infuse the flavors of the herbs and vegetables into the milk.

3. After simmering, carefully let all the ingredients settle at the bottom of the stewpan. Pass the broth through a fine hair sieve to separate any solids.

4. Add an equal quantity of milk or cream to the strained broth and return it to the stove.

5. Gently place the cod fillets into the sauce and cook them over low heat until the fish is fully cooked. This slow cooking ensures that the fish remains tender and flavorful.

6. Once the fish is cooked, pour off the sauce, but leave a little on the fish to keep it warm.

7. Transfer the remaining sauce to a bain-marie and reduce it over gentle heat. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the milk from curdling.

8. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk.

9. Gradually add the reduced sauce into the whisked egg yolk, stirring continuously. This will temper the yolk and help thicken the sauce.

10. Lastly, pour the sauce over the cooked fish and serve it warm.

Merluzzo In Salamoia can be enjoyed with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The delicate flavors of the fish combined with the creamy sauce create a truly delightful dish.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

- Baccalà alla Livornese: This is another popular Italian cod recipe where the fish is cooked in a savory tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and olives. It is a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for seafood lovers.

- Fisherman's Stew: Also known as Cioppino, this seafood stew is a classic in Italian-American cuisine. It typically consists of a variety of fish and shellfish cooked in a tomato-based broth with aromatic herbs and spices.

- Mediterranean Roasted Fish: For a lighter preparation, you can try roasting your choice of fish with an assortment of Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Serve it with lemon wedges for a refreshing burst of flavor.

Whether you choose to prepare Merluzzo In Salamoia or explore other fish recipes, the world of seafood cuisine offers a diverse range of flavors and culinary experiences. Enjoy the journey of discovering different ways to savor and enjoy the bounty of the sea.