Summary: Homemade marinated cod is the Mediterranean version of Scandinavian gravlax. Salt, sugar, dill, and time transform fresh cod into a cured product with extraordinary flavor. This technique takes 24-48 hours but the result is a gourmet product that rivals smoked salmon.
Contents
Marinating vs. smoking vs. salting
| Process | Method | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinating (this recipe) | Salt + sugar + herbs | 24-48h | Cured, silky, aromatic |
| Cold smoking | Salt + cold smoke | 12-24h | Smoked, firm |
| Traditional salting | Only salt | Weeks | Intense, classic cod |
| Pickling | Vinegar + spices | 12-24h | Acidic, spicy |
Ingredients for 500g of fresh cod
- 500g fresh cod loin (previously frozen for 48h for safety)
- 80g coarse salt
- 40g sugar
- 1 bunch fresh dill
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brandy or vodka
Recipe and timings
- Mix the marinade: Combine salt + sugar + pepper + lemon zest.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the loin dry with paper towels. Remove any bones with tweezers.
- Apply: On a tray, place a layer of dill, then the cod (skin side down), cover evenly with the salt/sugar mixture, then another layer of dill.
- Press: Cover with cling film, place a weight on top (a can of preserves) and refrigerate.
- Timings: 24h = mild marinate. 36h = balanced. 48h = more cured and intense. Flip the cod after 12h.
- Clean: Scrape off the marinade with a knife (do not wash — water dilutes the flavor). Pat dry with paper towels.
- Slice: Into very thin slices with a well-sharpened ham or chef's knife.
Marinating variations
| Style | Special ingredient | Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Scandinavian | Dill + vodka | Fresh, herbaceous |
| Mediterranean | Lemon + thyme + EVOO | Citrusy, herbaceous |
| Asian | Ginger + sake + sesame | Oriental umami |
| Spicy | Chili + cilantro + lime | Spicy, fresh |
How to serve marinated cod
- In thin slices on rye bread with crème fraîche and capers
- With mashed avocado and tomato
- As a substitute for smoked salmon in any recipe
- On cucumber salad with yogurt and dill
Bacalalo — Quality fresh cod
Premium cod for marinating and all cooking techniques. Selection from the best fishing grounds.
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⭐ 4.9/5 · 24-48h refrigerated shipping · Since 1990 in Mercat del Ninot
Frequently asked questions
Is marinated cod safe to eat without cooking?
Yes, if you freeze fresh fish for 48h at -20°C before marinating. This eliminates Anisakis. The marinating process (salt+acid) alone does not eliminate parasites.
How long does marinated cod last?
5-7 days in the refrigerator, well covered. It can also be frozen after marinating for up to 1 month.
Can I marinate desalted cod?
Desalted cod has already undergone a curing process. Marinating it again would result in an excessively salty product. This recipe is for fresh cod.
See: Salmon Tataki | Smoked Salmon Recipes
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