Few combinations are as comforting as creamy white beans with cod. The beans provide body and the cod adds a taste of the sea and protein; together they form a humble and nutritious spoon stew that tastes even better the next day. A traditional, economical dish, elevated with good quality desalted cod.
White beans with cod is another classic Lent dish that became a year-round meal. The creamy, buttery beans absorb the flavor of the sofrito and create a thick broth that envelops the pieces of cod. It is a nutritionally complete dish (animal protein + vegetable protein + carbohydrates), satisfying and comforting. The quick version with canned beans is ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
- 400 g desalted cod loin in pieces (we use Extra Desalted Shredded Cod - 500g)
- 600 g cooked white beans (2 drained cans)
- 1 chopped onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 200 g crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 300 ml fish broth
- Olive oil, parsley
Step-by-step preparation
- Sauté onion and garlic for 10 minutes. Add tomato, cook for 5 minutes. Add paprika (20 seconds) and pour in the broth.
- Add the beans and bay leaf. Cook for 10 minutes over medium heat. Mash a few against the pot to thicken the broth.
- Cod: 6 minutes Add the cod, cover, and cook for 6 minutes over low heat. Garnish with parsley and raw oil when serving.
The house trick
If using canned beans, rinse them under the tap to remove the viscous liquid from the can (which has a metallic taste). If using dried beans cooked at home, the result is several levels better, but requires planning (soaking overnight + 1.5 hours of cooking). For everyday use, canned beans are perfectly valid.
Buy it at BacalaloExtra Desalted Shredded Cod - 500g€19.97 · Refrigerated 24-48h shipping →Frequently asked questions
Canned or dried beans?
Dried beans (soaked the day before) give better texture and broth, but quality canned beans speed up the recipe without sacrificing the result.
When do I add the cod?
At the end, in the last 5-8 minutes, so it stays juicy and doesn't dry out or fall apart too much.
Can it be frozen?
Yes, the stew freezes well. Heat it over low heat so the beans don't break apart.
