🇵🇹 Portugal · Food
Bacalhau à Brás
By eatmundo · August 3, 2026
🇵🇹 PTA comforting classic of shredded salt cod scrambled with finely matchsticked potatoes and eggs. It is the ultimate Portuguese soul food, celebrated for its perfect balance of salt and creaminess.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water 3 times, then shred into small flakes removing skin and bones.
- 2
Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin matchsticks, then fry them in oil until just golden but not crispy, about 4 minutes.
- 3
Slice the onions into thin half-moons and sauté in 50ml of olive oil in a large skillet until translucent and soft.
- 4
Add the shredded cod to the onion mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently so the flavors meld.
- 5
Whisk the 4 eggs in a bowl with a pinch of salt, then add the potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- 6
Pour the eggs into the pan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until soft and creamy, not dry.
- 7
Remove from heat immediately, toss in half of the chopped parsley, and garnish with remaining parsley and olives before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to soak the cod for 24 hours?+
Yes, it is essential to rehydrate the fish and remove excess salt for the correct texture and flavor.
Should the potatoes be crispy?+
No, they should be soft and tender so they meld into the creamy egg mixture.
Can I use fresh cod instead of salt cod?+
It is possible but you will lose the signature umami depth that defines authentic Bacalhau à Brás.
What if my eggs scramble too much?+
Remove the pan from the heat while the eggs are still slightly wet; carry-over heat will finish the cooking.
🇵🇹 PTMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Bacalhau à Brás's core ingredients.
