In the heart of Provence, nestled amidst sun-kissed vineyards and azure skies, lies a culinary gem that has captivated taste buds for centuries: Brandade de Morue. This traditional Provençal dish, hailing from the charming town of Nîmes, is a harmonious blend of velvety smooth mashed potatoes and tender, flaked salt cod, gently infused with the essence of garlic, olive oil, and a touch of cream. Its origins can be traced back to the humble fishing communities along the Mediterranean coast, where resourceful cooks transformed simple ingredients into a dish that exudes both elegance and rustic charm.
Our culinary journey takes us through three distinct yet equally enticing renditions of Brandade de Morue. The classic recipe, a testament to time-honored tradition, showcases the harmonious union of potatoes and salt cod, complemented by the aromatic trinity of garlic, olive oil, and parsley. For those seeking a touch of indulgence, the Brandade de Morue à la Crème elevates the dish with a luscious cream sauce, while the Brandade de Morue au Four beckons with its golden-brown crust, achieved through a delicate baking process. Each variation offers a unique symphony of flavors and textures, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.
As we delve into the nuances of each recipe, we uncover the secrets behind their distinctive characteristics. Step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, ensuring that every spoonful of Brandade de Morue bursts with authentic Provençal flavors. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of the original, the creamy richness of the crème-infused version, or the savory crust of the baked delight, these recipes provide a culinary passport to the heart of Provence, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and the enduring spirit of French cuisine.
RIAD'S BRANDADE DE MORUE
This Provencal dish -- made with pounded salt cod and pureed potatoes -- is a staple in French bistros. Riad Nasr of New York City's Balthazar restaurant shares his recipe and preparation technique.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Seafood Recipes
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In large bowl, completely cover cod in water, and soak for at least 24 hours, changing water every 2 to 3 hours.
- Make two bouquets garnis: For each, bunch 2 bay leaves, 1 sprig rosemary, and 6 sprigs thyme together, and tie with kitchen string. In a medium saucepan, place cod with 1 head of garlic, 1 bouquet garni, the milk, and 1 cup water. Over low heat, bring to simmer. Cook until fish is flaky, about 10 minutes. Drain, and discard garlic and bouquet garni. When cool enough to touch, flake fish, and set aside.
- Place potatoes in medium saucepan, and cover with salted water. Cook potatoes at a simmer until fork-tender, 15 to 20 minutes, and drain.
- In small saucepan, add oil, remaining head of garlic, and remaining bouquet garni. Over low heat, warm the oil, about 10 minutes. Discard garlic and bouquet garni.
- Put potatoes through a food mill while still warm. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine potatoes and cod on low speed until just incorporated. Slowly add the infused oil, then add 1 cup cream. Do not overmix, or potatoes will become pasty.
- Garnish brandade with remaining 2 tablespoons warm cream and garlic confit. Serve with toasted croutons or bread.
BRANDADE DE MORUE CANAPES
Categories Milk/Cream Food Processor Fish Pepper Potato Poach Roast Cocktail Party Bastille Day Chill Gourmet
Yield Makes about 60 hors d'oeuvres
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Make the brandade de morue:
- In a ceramic or glass bowl let the salt cod soak in cold water to cover, changing the water several times, for 24 hours and drain it. In a kettle poach the cod in simmering water to cover for 25 minutes, or until it flakes easily when tested with a fork, drain it in a colander, and refresh it under cold water. Pat the cod dry and break it into pieces. In a skillet cook the onion in 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately low heat, stirring, until it is soft and let it cool. In a food processor puree the onion mixture, the garlic and the cod until the mixture is smooth, with the motor running add the remaining 1/3 cup oil in a stream, 1/2 cup of the cream, the lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste, and puree the mixture until it is smooth. The brandade de morue may be made 2 days in advance and kept covered and chilled. If desired, thin the brandade with the remaining 2 tablespoons cream.
- On oiled baking sheets arrange the potatoes, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices, without touching, drizzle them with the oil, and roast them in a preheated 400°F. oven, turning them once, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until they are tender, slightly crisp around the edges, and pale golden. Transfer the potatoes to paper towels to drain. Arrange the potato slices on a platter, top each slice with a dollop of the brandade, and top the brandade with the roasted red pepper.
- To roast peppers
- Using a long-handled fork char the peppers over an open flame, turning them, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the skins are blackened. (Or broil the peppers on the rack of a broiler pan under a preheated broiler about 2 inches from the heat, turning them every 5 minutes, for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and charred.) Transfer the peppers to a a bowl and let them steam, covered, until they are cool enough to handle. Keeping the peppers whole, peel them starting at the blossom end, cut off the tops, and discard the seeds and ribs. (Wear rubber gloves when handling chilies.)
BRANDADE DE MORUE (SALT COD AND POTATO PUREE)
Provided by Moira Hodgson
Categories dinner, appetizer
Time 30m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- One day ahead, soak the salt cod overnight in cold water to cover, changing the water several times. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
- On the day of serving, boil the potatoes until they are tender. Poach the salt cod in fresh cold water to cover for 15 minutes. Drain, rinse and remove any pieces of skin or bone.
- Combine the potatoes, salt cod and garlic in a food processor. Puree until smooth. Gently heat the olive oil in a small pan. With the machine running, slowly add the hot oil through the funnel, then the hot milk. Season to taste with white pepper. Place the puree in a gratin dish.
- Just before serving, put the puree under a preheated broiler and brown lightly. Serve with fried bread triangles.
BRANDADE DE MORUE
Steps:
- Place the salt cod in one layer in a skillet or saucepan with water to cover; bring the water to a boil, turn off the heat, and let cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and pick out any stray bones or pieces of skin.
- Place the cod in a food processor with the garlic and a couple tablespoons of the olive oil. Start processing and, through the feed tube, add small amounts of olive oil alternating with small amounts of cream. Continue until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and light. (You may not need all of the oil and cream.) Add pepper, some of the lemon juice, and the nutmeg. Blend and taste; the mixture may need a bit of salt and more lemon juice. (You can prepare the dish several hours or even a day ahead to this point; cover and refrigerate until you're ready to eat.)
- Reheat the brandade if necessary, in a double boiler or in a 300°F oven, covered. Serve with bread, toast, or crackers.
Tips:
- Choose the best fish. For the most flavorful brandade, use a firm, white fish with a mild flavor, such as cod, haddock, or pollock. Avoid oily fish like salmon or tuna, as they will make the brandade too greasy.
- Soak the fish overnight. This will help to remove any excess salt and make the fish more tender. If you don't have time to soak the fish overnight, you can soak it for at least 30 minutes.
- Use a food processor to make the brandade. This will help to create a smooth and creamy texture. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a potato masher, but it will take more effort.
- Be patient. Brandade takes time to make, but it's worth the effort. The longer you cook it, the more flavorful it will be.
- Serve brandade with your favorite sides. It can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. Some popular sides include roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or crusty bread.
Conclusion:
Brandade de morue is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It's a great way to use up leftover fish, and it's also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. If you're looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give brandade de morue a try. You won't be disappointed.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love