Spanish Cod and Potatoes Recipe – A Savory Delight

Spanish cod and potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests while also providing a nutritious, well-rounded meal.

best Spanish Cod and Potatoes Recipe by the mediterranean fork

This savory combination of flavors boasts the tenderness of flaky cod and the heartiness of potatoes, all brought together by the enticing aromas of Spanish spices. 

An ideal meal for both weeknights and special occasions, you’ll find this traditional recipe to offer a rich culinary experience while remaining relatively simple to prepare.

In the following sections, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to create this tasty Spanish dish, along with a few helpful tips and possible variations that are worth trying. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the results will undoubtedly be mouthwatering and satisfying. As you delve into creating this dish for yourself, we’re sure that the Spanish cod and potatoes recipe will become a cherished favorite among your culinary repertoire.

Now, let’s explore the ingredients and techniques you’ll need to make this Spanish recipe come to life, providing a delectable addition to your cookbook that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying a cozy dinner for two. Buen provecho!

ingredients needed to make the Bacalao con Patatas

Ingredients

2 cod filets (around 400 gr.)

Sea salt and pepper, to taste

¼ cup olive oil

1 garlic cloves, sliced

1 onion, chopped

½ green pepper, chopped

4-5 big potatoes, peeled and cut in big chunks

2 cups fish stock

2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

2 tbsp. olive oil

1 tsp. sweet paprika (pimentón español)

Fresh parsley to serve

How to Make Spanish Cod and Potatoes

1. Clean the cod filets and pat them dry with paper towels—season with salt and pepper.

cod seasoned with salt and pepper

2. Heat a non-stick skillet to medium and add the olive oil.

3. Place the filet’s skin side down and let them cook for about 5 minutes on each side; reserve.

cooking filet's skin side down

4. In the same oil (or adding a bit more if needed), add the garlic, onion, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, just until the onion is translucent.

cooking the garlic, onion, and pepper for the Bacalao con Patatas

5. Add the potatoes and fish stock and bring them to a boil. Lower the heat and let them simmer, covered, until the potatoes are soft (around 15 minutes).

cooking potatoes and fish stock and bringing them to a boil

6. In another skillet, heat the olive oil and add the sweet paprika. Cook for a couple of minutes and reserve.

heating the olive oil and adding the sweet paprika

7. Once the potatoes are soft, add the cod back to the skillet and top with the oil with paprika.

cod, potato and paprika

8. Serve with fresh parsley.

Bacalao con Patatas with fresh parsley

Recipe Notes and Tips

  • Cut the potatoes irregularly; this will allow the starch from the potatoes to come out easily and make the sauce creamy.
frying cod bacalao

What does cod go well with?

The Spanish cod and potatoes recipe can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Pair the dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, to balance out the flavors and add a touch of color to the plate. Take a peek at our favorite salad recipes and savor a meal that’s both healthful and delectable.

Complement the Spanish cod and potatoes with olive oil and a slice of crusty bread, which can be used to soak up the delicious sauce and add some texture to your meal. 

For a heartier option, serve the dish over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa to create a more filling meal that can satisfy diverse palates.

If you’re looking to pair this dish with a beverage, a refreshing white wine such as Albariño or Verdejo will nicely complement the flavors of the Spanish cod and potatoes. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a chilled glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.

And if your taste buds are yearning for more flavors from Spain’s bountiful waters, you simply must peek at our 34 mouthwatering Spanish fish recipes!

Spanish Cod and Potatoes in a white plate

Variations

Spanish Cod and Potatoes is a versatile dish with numerous variations to cater to different preferences. Below are some popular twists on the traditional Spanish cod and potatoes recipe:

  • Spicy Version: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or incorporating spicy Spanish chorizo can bring some heat to the dish.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the cod with hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini to create a satisfying vegetarian version.
  • Additional Seafood: Complement the cod with other seafood options like shrimp, squid, or mussels for a more diverse flavor profile.

Moreover, playing with the side dishes can add more excitement to this meal. 

top view of Bacalao con Patatas with my hand

Cooking Tips and Tricks

For the best taste and texture, choose a firm, white-fleshed fish like Atlantic cod or halibut. Select fresh, high-quality potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or russet, for optimal results.

When cooking the cod, pay close attention to the doneness. Overcooked fish can become dry and tough. Cook until it flakes easily with a fork, but don’t let it cook too long.

To achieve a well-seasoned dish, season the cod and potatoes with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings after cooking as needed.

For a crispy golden brown finish on the potatoes, try roasting them at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) for 25-30 minutes. Turn them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Consider adding some extra vegetables to the dish for added nutrition and variety. Some options to include are:

  • Chopped bell peppers
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced olives
  • Chopped spinach or kale

Finally, a touch of lemon juice, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavors of this simple and delicious Spanish cod and potatoes recipe.

In summary, the Spanish cod and potatoes recipe is a delicious and wholesome meal that brings together two staple ingredients found in Spanish cuisine. The combination of flavors and textures from the fish, potatoes, and spices creates a satisfying dish for any occasion.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily prepare this meal at home and enjoy a taste of Spanish tradition. Remember to use quality ingredients, such as fresh whole cod fillets, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant spices, to achieve the best results.

Additionally, you can customize the recipe to your personal preferences by adjusting the spices, adding other vegetables, or even substituting the fresh cod used with another type of fish. With time and practice, you can master this Spanish classic and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

As we’ve explored in this article, the Spanish cod and potatoes recipe is not only a delightful meal but also an example of the rich culinary heritage of Spain. We hope that you have enjoyed learning about and preparing this dish and that it has become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire.

close up shot of the Spanish Cod and Potatoes
best Spanish Cod and Potatoes Recipe by the mediterranean fork

Spanish Cod and Potatoes Recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes
Unlock the flavors of Spain with this savory cod and potato recipe! With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you're sure to enjoy this delicious dish.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Spanish

Equipment

  • Pots
  • Kitchen towels
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Spoons and knives

Ingredients

  • 2 cod filets around 400 g
  • Sea salt
  • pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic cloves sliced
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1/2 green pepper chopped
  • 4-5 big potatoes peeled and cut in big chunks
  • 2 cup fish stock
  • 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika (pimentón español)
  • Fresh parsley to serve

Nutrition

Calories: 3010kcal | Carbohydrates: 168g | Protein: 350g | Fat: 98g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Monounsaturated Fat: 62g | Cholesterol: 774mg | Sodium: 2586mg | Potassium: 11788mg | Fiber: 23g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1965IU | Vitamin C: 245mg | Calcium: 590mg | Iron: 16mg
Servings: 2
Calories: 3010kcal

Notes

  • Cut the potatoes irregularly; this will allow the starch from the potatoes to come out easily and make the sauce creamy
  • .

Instructions

  • Clean the cod filets and pat them dry with paper towels—season with salt and pepper.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet to medium and add the olive oil.
  • Place the filet's skin side down and let them cook for about 5 minutes on each side; reserve.
  • In the same oil (or adding a bit more if needed), add the garlic, onion, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, just until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the potatoes and fish stock and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let them simmer, covered, until the potatoes are soft (around 15 minutes).
  • In another skillet, heat the olive oil and add the sweet paprika. Cook for a couple of minutes and reserve.
  • Once the potatoes are soft, add the cod back to the skillet and top with the oil with paprika.
  • Serve with fresh parsley.
KEYWORD: spanish cod and potatoes recipe
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We are Cat on Table, a food photography and videography studio focused on the ideation, production and editing of food content. We are a family based studio and our main goal is to tell stories through powerful food images and videos. I'm Alejandra de la Torre, head photographer and videographer, and together with our team - Miren Michelena, recipe development and production, Javier Camacho Miranda, post-production and editing, and Julio de la Torre, photography - we focus on bringing recipes to life!