Baccala Mantecato
Baccala Mantecato is a traditional Italian dish made by blending salted cod, olive oil, garlic, and lemon into a creamy, savory spread. Typically served over warm polenta, it’s a rich and flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining. The addition of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil enhances the dish, making it a lovely balance of savory, rich, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 300 g salted cod soaked overnight and drained
- ½ cup olive oil plus more for drizzling
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked polenta
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Crackers or breadsticks for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: After soaking the salted cod for at least 24 hours, drain and rinse it under cold water. Remove any skin and bones.
- Cook the Cod: In a pot, cover the cod with water and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the fish is tender.
- Blend the Mixture: Drain the cod and transfer it to a food processor. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve with Polenta: Spoon the cod mixture over warm polenta, and drizzle with additional olive oil. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve with crackers or breadsticks as a delectable finger food appetizer.
Notes
The salted cod needs to be soaked overnight to remove excess salt. Make sure to change the water a few times during soaking. Serve the cod mixture over warm polenta for the best texture. You can also top it with additional olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. For extra depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of chili flakes to the spread for a bit of heat.