Cod Pil Pil is a traditional Spanish dish that has gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Originating from the Basque region in Spain, this dish features delicate cod fillets cooked in a flavorful garlic and olive oil sauce known as Pil Pil sauce.
The key to mastering the Cod Pil Pil recipe lies in the careful treatment of the fish and the meticulous preparation of the sauce – made by emulsifying olive oil, garlic, and guindilla peppers. This delicious dish requires patience and attention to detail but provides a satisfying experience both in the cooking process and when savoring each flavorful bite.
By following a few simple steps, even a novice cook can create an authentic Cod Pil Pil dish to impress family and friends. The result is a delightful combination of tender fish infused with aromatic garlic and the slight heat from the peppers; all brought together in a silky, creamy sauce that is sure to leave diners craving more.
We just had to include this in our favorite 34 Delicious Spanish Fish Recipes.
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup olive oil
1 cod loin (around 600 gr.)
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
¼ cup fish broth
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 dried chilis (cayenne pepper)
Sea salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Cod Pil Pil
1. Cut the cod loin into chunks, pat it dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet to medium and add the olive oil.
3. Add the garlic cloves and let them cook for a couple of minutes, just until golden brown. Remove and reserve.
4. Place the cod loins, skin side down, in the oil and let it cook at low/med temperature, around 60ºC/140ºF (you are not frying the cod, it should cook in oil but slowly). You will cook them for around 7-8 minutes per side or until they are white on both sides and start to release the fat and collagen. You can use a spoon to cover them with hot oil while they continue cooking on one side.
5. Remove around half of the oil that’s left in the skillet and reserve. Add the fish broth and dried chilis and move the skillet vigorously until it starts to emulsify – instead of a liquid sauce, it will become kind of a soft jelly consistency.
6. Add the cod back to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and top with fresh parsley.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Pil Pil is a typical sauce from the Basque country, and because of its very simple preparation, it requires the best quality olive oil that we can find.
- This dish is typically served in a clay casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Cod Pil Pil is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to suit your preferences. Here are a few serving suggestions for this delicious Basque-inspired recipe:
Accompaniments: Serve Cod Pil Pil alongside some simple yet tasty side dishes. You can choose from a variety of options, such as steamed or roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful Pil Pil sauce. Other popular Spanish sides include Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes) or a rice-based dish like Paella.
Take a peek at our favorite salad recipes and savor a meal that’s both healthful and delectable.
Wine Pairing: A crisp and refreshing white wine, like an Albariño or a Verdejo, can complement the flavors of this dish beautifully. These Spanish wines provide a balanced acidity that cuts through the richness of the Pil Pil sauce without overpowering the delicate taste of the cod.
Garnishes: To enhance both the appearance and the taste of your Cod Pil Pil, consider adding some fresh garnishes. Chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color and a vibrant fresh flavor. For an extra kick, sprinkle thinly sliced red pepper or guindilla chili on top.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a dining experience that suits your taste buds and showcases the unique characteristics of Cod Pil Pil.
Variations
There are several ways to personalize the traditional Cod Pil Pil recipe to suit different tastes and preferences. By incorporating unique ingredients or modifying certain aspects of the recipe, you can create a dish that reflects your culinary style.
One popular variation involves the use of different vegetables and herbs for added flavor. For example, try sautéing diced bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes with garlic to include in the Pil Pil sauce. Experiment with various herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for a new spin on the classic recipe.
Another variation can be substituting or adding different proteins to the dish. Instead of using only cod, incorporate shrimp, scallops, or mussels for a seafood medley. This will not only enhance the taste of the sauce but also add texture to the overall dish.
If you prefer a spicier Pil Pil sauce, consider adding spices such as cayenne pepper, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes. To intensify the flavors, marinate the cod in a mixture of spices and herbs before cooking. This will allow the fish to absorb more of the flavor profile.
Lastly, you may want to experiment with the presentation of the dish. For example, serve Cod Pil Pil over a bed of rice, couscous, or even mashed potatoes to make the meal more substantial. You can also garnish the plate with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and olives for a more visually appealing presentation.
Cod Pil Pil is truly a special dish that reflects the culture and diversity of Spanish cuisine. Not only is it full of flavor, but it’s also extremely easy to make with minimal ingredients. It can easily be used as a weeknight dinner since it cooks in under 15 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your evening with family and friends.
Additionally, the versatility of Cod Pil Pil enables you to make changes to accommodate any dietary restriction or food preference. This dish is sure to quickly become your favorite as it provides an exciting mix of texture and spices. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you like it!
Furthermore, if you’re looking for other tasty recipes from Spanish cuisine, check out our 26 Must-Try Catalan Recipes; trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Cod Pil Pil Recipe
Equipment
- Pots
- Kitchen towels
- Non-stick skillet
- Kitchen thermometer (optional)
- Spoons and knives
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cod loin (around 600 g.)
- 6 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fish broth
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 2 dried chilis (cayenne pepper)
- Sea salt
- pepper
Nutrition
Notes
- Pil Pil is a typical sauce from the Basque country, and because of its very simple preparation, it requires the best quality olive oil that we can find.
- This dish is typically served in a clay casserole.
Instructions
- Cut the cod loin into chunks, pat it dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a non-stick skillet to medium and add the olive oil.
- Add the garlic cloves and let them cook for a couple of minutes, just until golden brown. Remove and reserve.
- Place the cod loins, skin side down, in the oil and let it cook at low/med temperature, around 60ºC/140ºF (you are not frying the cod, it should cook in oil but slowly). You will cook them for around 7-8 minutes per side or until they are white on both sides and start to release the fat and collagen. You can use a spoon to cover them with hot oil while they continue cooking on one side.
- Remove around half of the oil that’s left in the skillet and reserve. Add the fish broth and dried chilis and move the skillet vigorously until it starts to emulsify – instead of a liquid sauce, it will become kind of a soft jelly consistency.
- Add the cod back to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and top with fresh parsley.
