Editorial content from Empório Portugal. Traditional recipes may vary by region, family and cook.
About the recipe
Iscas de bacalhau are a quick-to-prepare tavern snack: thin strips of cod, golden garlic and fragrant olive oil.
They are served in taverns, cafés and at sharing tables — ideal as a starter or alongside a beer.
Ingredients
- 500 g of desalted cod
- 4 sliced garlic cloves
- 100 ml of olive oil
- Wheat flour
- Black pepper
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon
Method
- Cut the cod into thin strips and dry lightly.
- Season with pepper and quickly coat in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a wide frying pan.
- Sauté or fry the strips until golden.
- Lift out and set aside.
- In the same oil, brown the garlic without burning.
- Return the cod strips to the pan, toss gently and sauté for 1 minute.
- Finish with parsley and a few drops of lemon juice.
Tips from Empório Portugal
- Thin strips cook in seconds — don't let them dry out.
- Burnt garlic makes the entire dish bitter.
- Serve immediately, very hot.
Possible substitutions in Brazil
- A light dusting of sweet paprika (colorau) adds characteristic colour.
- Thin-cut chips make a good accompaniment.
Pairing
Beer, Vinho Verde or a light wine. Content intended for people over 18 years of age. Drink in moderation.
Regional and family variations may change ingredients, quantities and method.
Recipes from Empório Portugal are shared for cultural and culinary purposes. Adjust ingredients for dietary needs, allergies and professional advice.
This recipe is part of the editorial curation of Empório Portugal, developed from Portuguese culinary tradition. Like every traditional recipe, it may vary by region, family and cook.
Send it to the Empório Portugal community. Submitted recipes are reviewed before any publication.
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