Baccala in white sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings together the tender goodness of dried salted cod with a creamy and flavorful white sauce. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious baccala in white sauce that will impress your family and friends. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried salted cod (baccala)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Soak the baccala: Start by soaking the dried salted cod in cold water for 24-48 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours to remove excess salt. Once soaked, drain the water and cut the cod into small pieces.
2. Prepare the white sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent. Sprinkle the flour into the pan and whisk it into the butter until well combined. Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if desired).
3. Cook the baccala: In a separate pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the baccala pieces and sauté them until they turn golden brown on both sides. Remove the baccala from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
4. Combine the white sauce and baccala: Gently place the cooked baccala into the white sauce, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve and garnish: Once the baccala is cooked through and the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the baccala in white sauce to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta.
Now you have the perfect recipe to create a mouthwatering baccala in white sauce. Surprise your loved ones with this traditional Italian delicacy and watch them savor every bite. Buon appetito!