Cod fish and how to desalt salt cod

Cod fish preserved in salt tastes much better than fresh cod, which is rather insipid. Strange as it may seem, drying cod and preserving it in salt brings out a flavor you never get when cooking fresh cod fish.

Traditional Lent figure with cod fish.

The salt method of preservation enhances the texture of the cod fish too, making it smoother. In short, fresh cod allows you to prepare acceptable fish recipes. With salt cod fish as the raw material, you can cook succulent Catalan and Mediterranean diet recipes.

How to desalt salt cod fish easily

If you ever thought that salt cod recipes are too salty, you needn't worry, because they aren't. The secret is to desalt the salt cod fish properly, not too much, not too little. After a few times you'll know easily when the cod fish is rightly desalted.

• Desalting fillets or small loin pieces - Soak the salt cod fish in plain water for at least 24 hours. Change the water 6 or more times.


• Desalting shredded salt cod fish - Soak it in plain water for at least 18 hours. Change the water 5 or more times.


• Desalting a whole salt cod - Soak the salt cod for at least 48 hours. Change the water 5 to 6 times every 24 hours. I recommend that you do not start with a whole salt cod. It's advisable that you stick to fillets or small cod fish pieces.

Wait to drain the cod fish until you are about to start cooking your cod recipe

In some Mediterranean countries you can buy desalted salt cod fish in the markets. In this case, you should consume it the same day, as you do with fresh fish.