Salting cod, also known as bacalao, is a popular method of preserving and flavoring this delicious fish. However, before you can use salted cod in your recipes, you need to desalinate it properly to remove excess salt. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of mastering the art of salting cod by providing step-by-step instructions on how to desalinate bacalao.
Why is Desalinating Bacalao Important?
Desalinating bacalao is crucial because the fish is heavily salted during the preservation process. If you were to cook it without desalinating, the dish would become unbearably salty. Desalinating helps restore its natural taste while maintaining the desired texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Desalinate Bacalao
Follow these simple steps to master the art of desalinating bacalao:
- Step 1: Soak the Cod
- Step 2: Test the Saltiness
- Step 3: Rinse the Cod
- Step 4: Pat Dry
Place the salted cod in a large bowl or container and cover it with cold water. Let it soak overnight or for a minimum of 24 hours. Remember to change the water at least two to three times during this soaking period, as this helps remove the excess salt.
After the soaking period, remove a small piece of cod and taste it to check its saltiness. If it is still too salty, continue soaking for a few more hours. Repeat this test until the desired salt level is achieved.
Once the cod reaches the desired saltiness, drain the soaking water and thoroughly rinse the fish under cold running water. The rinsing process helps remove any remaining salt and prepares the cod for cooking.
After rinsing, gently pat dry each piece of cod with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture helps ensure better cooking results.
Best Practices for Desalinating Bacalao
While the basic steps mentioned above will help you desalinate bacalao effectively, here are some additional tips to ensure the best results:
- Always refrigerate the cod during the soaking process to prevent bacteria growth.
- Use a large amount of water to soak the cod, as this helps to dilute and remove the excess salt more efficiently.
- If possible, use filtered or mineral water to soak the cod, as tap water may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can affect the taste.
- For a faster desalination process, you can also soak the cod in milk instead of water. The milk helps remove the salt while adding a creamy flavor to the fish.
Now that you have mastered the art of salting cod and desalinating bacalao, you can confidently incorporate this flavorful ingredient into your favorite recipes. From classic bacalao dishes to innovative creations, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy!
Remember to check out our other blog posts for more insightful culinary tips and recipes.