Description: A traditional Irish-inspired seafood dish, salt cod is gently poached until tender and served with a rich parsley and butter sauce. The mild, flaky fish pairs beautifully with the creamy herb-infused sauce, creating a comforting and rustic meal perfect for colder evenings.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds salt cod
- 4 tbsp Irish butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup fish stock or water
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Boiled potatoes, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare salt cod: Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt.
- Cook fish: Place the soaked cod in a saucepan and cover with fresh water. Bring gently to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes until the fish flakes easily. Drain and remove any skin or bones.
- Make sauce base: In a skillet or saucepan, melt the Irish butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Create sauce: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and fish stock until smooth.
- Add parsley: Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the parsley, lemon juice, and black pepper.
- Serve: Spoon the parsley butter sauce over the warm salt cod and serve with boiled potatoes and lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestion
Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or steamed cabbage for a comforting Irish-style seafood supper.
