Brandade Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Brandade Ingredients

Brandade Instructions

  1. Place the salt cod in a large bowl, cover with cold water, and refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours, changing the water every 8 hours to remove excess salt.
  2. Drain the soaked cod and place it in a saucepan with the milk, bay leaf, black peppercorns, and shallot. Add enough water to cover the cod by an inch.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Poach the cod for 15 minutes, skimming off any foam, until the fish flakes easily. Remove the cod and set aside. Discard the bay leaf and peppercorns. Reserve 1/2 cup of the poaching liquid.
  4. Place the peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a separate pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of sea salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
  5. While the potatoes are hot, mash them until smooth. Stir in the butter and half of the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
  6. Flake the poached cod into small pieces, removing any bones and skin.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked cod, mashed potatoes, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly.
  8. Gradually add the olive oil in a slow stream while stirring, followed by the remaining heavy cream and 1/4 cup of the reserved poaching liquid, until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
  9. Season the mixture with white pepper, nutmeg, and sea salt to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and thyme.
  10. Transfer the brandade mixture to a lightly oiled baking dish, smoothing the top. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil.
  11. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
  12. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and chives before serving, if desired.

Estimated Calories: 350, Servings: 6

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Healthy Brandade De Morue Tips

If you're looking to boost the health factor of your favorite French Brandade recipe, there are plenty of easy and delicious tweaks you can try! For a healthier homemade version, start by choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients-think wild-caught cod and extra-virgin olive oil. Swapping out some of the traditional cream or butter for olive oil not only keeps the recipe authentic but also adds heart-healthy fats. You can also add more fiber and nutrients by mixing in cauliflower with the potatoes, making the dish lighter without sacrificing that tasty, creamy texture. For the best health benefits, go easy on the salt and use fresh herbs for flavor. These simple tips will help you create a quick, easy, and healthy Brandade that's still packed with all the delicious, authentic flavors you love. Remember, the perfect recipe is one that's both tasty and good for your health!

Brandade De Morue Quick Mistake Fixes

One common issue that can pop up with this dish is that it turns out too salty. Since the main ingredient is already preserved with salt, it is easy to go overboard if you are not careful. The best way to avoid this is to taste as you go and remember that a little salt goes a long way. If you find yourself with a dish that is too salty, a good quick fix is to add a bit more of the other main components to help balance things out. This is a great tip for anyone who wants a healthy and delicious meal without overwhelming saltiness.
Another thing to watch out for is the texture, which can sometimes end up dry or soggy. Achieving the best consistency is all about timing and technique. If it is too dry, a fast and easy way to fix it is to add a splash of olive oil or a bit of cream to bring back some moisture. On the other hand, if it is too soggy, letting it sit uncovered for a few minutes can help evaporate excess liquid. A good texture makes the dish feel more luxurious and satisfying, so it is worth taking a moment to get it just right.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes is a great skill to have, especially with a recipe like this. If you taste your dish and it feels a bit bland, a quick squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can make a world of difference. These easy additions can brighten up the flavors and make everything taste more vibrant. The best part is that these changes are fast and do not require any extra cooking, so you can adjust right before serving for a truly delicious result.

Brandade De Morue Pairings

When it comes to flavors that pair best with Brandade De Morue, think about bright, zesty, and herbaceous notes. A good squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can really lift the dish and make it even more delicious. If you want to try something a little different, a quick drizzle of high quality olive oil or a dusting of smoked paprika can add a new layer of flavor. These easy additions are a great way to enhance the overall experience and make your meal feel extra special without much effort.
For sides, a classic French green salad is always a healthy and refreshing choice. The crispness of the greens and a tangy vinaigrette recipe balance the richness of the main dish. You could also serve some roasted vegetables, which are fast and easy to prepare, or a simple tomato salad for a burst of color and freshness. Crusty bread is another great option, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the creamy brandade. These sides are not only delicious but also quick to put together, making your meal feel complete.
When it comes to drinks, a chilled glass of white wine is one of the best pairings. A good Sauvignon Blanc or a light, crisp Chardonnay will complement the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a homemade lemonade is a great and healthy choice. These drinks are easy to serve and help cleanse the palate, making each bite taste as good as the first. Whether you go for wine or a refreshing mocktail, your meal will feel both elegant and satisfying.

Brandade De Morue Story

The first time I ever tried this dish was during a cozy evening at my friend's apartment in Paris. She had just returned from a trip to the south of France and was eager to share a recipe she claimed was the best she had ever tasted. The kitchen was filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses as we caught up on life. I remember feeling a little nervous because I am not always the most adventurous eater, but her excitement was contagious and I could not resist giving it a try.
What made the experience even more special was how easy and fast the whole process seemed. My friend insisted that it was a good choice for a weeknight dinner because it was both healthy and satisfying. As we sat around her small table, the conversation flowed effortlessly and everyone agreed that this meal was a great way to bring people together. There was something about sharing a homemade dish that made the evening feel extra warm and memorable.
After that night, I found myself craving the delicious flavors and the sense of comfort that came with them. I asked my friend for the recipe, hoping I could recreate the magic at home. It quickly became one of my go to meals whenever I wanted something quick but still impressive. Looking back, I realize that it was not just the food that made the night so special, but the company and the feeling of discovering something new together.

About Brandade De Morue Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best and most delicious recipe to impress your friends, look no further than this classic French Brandade. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy potatoes and salted cod into a tasty, fluffy spread that's perfect for any occasion. The best part? It's surprisingly easy and quick to whip up at home, even if your French accent is limited to saying "bonjour" to your cat. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a homemade masterpiece that tastes like it came straight from a Parisian bistro.
Wondering how to make this authentic recipe? The secret is all in the technique and the quality of your ingredients. Start with good salted cod, soak it well, and then blend it with olive oil, garlic, and potatoes until it's smooth and luscious. Don't be shy with the olive oil-this is not the time for calorie counting! For the best results, follow these tips: use starchy potatoes, don't overwork the mixture, and always taste as you go. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks who want to add a little French flair to their repertoire.
Serving this homemade Brandade is where the fun really begins. Slather it on crusty bread, serve it as a dip, or just eat it straight from the bowl (we won't judge). It's a simple yet impressive dish that's sure to earn you compliments and maybe even a few marriage proposals. With this tasty and authentic recipe, you'll have the best French-inspired meal on the block. So gather your ingredients, follow these tips, and get ready to enjoy the perfect, delicious Brandade every time!