Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Sicilian Fried Salt Cod - A Christmas Classic
Discover this beautifully simple Sicilian fried salt cod, a crisp and golden Christmas classic that brings Mediterranean warmth to the festive table.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 1 kg desalted salt cod, cut into medium pieces
- ✓ plain flour, for coating
- ✓ olive oil, for frying
📊 Nutritional Information
Few dishes capture the spirit of a Sicilian Christmas quite like fried salt cod. Crisp on the outside, tender within, and humming with the savoury depth that only properly soaked baccalà can offer, it’s the kind of recipe that brings generations together around the table.
In Sicily, this humble piece of salted fish - once a staple brought from the icy waters of the North Atlantic - has become a treasured festive tradition. Fried simply in good olive oil until irresistibly golden, it's the perfect way to begin a holiday meal, accompanied by chatter, laughter, and glasses that never stay empty for long.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Pat the salt cod thoroughly dry, then cut it into evenly sized pieces.
- 2
Dust each piece lightly in plain flour, shaking off any excess.
- 3
Heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan over a medium–low heat.
- 4
Fry the cod pieces for about 5 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden and crisp.
- 5
Lift out with tongs, rest briefly on kitchen paper, sprinkle with a little salt, and serve immediately.
💡 Tips and Variations
For a fragrant twist, mix a pinch of crushed rosemary or thyme into the flour before coating the fish. A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving gives the dish a bright, lively lift. If you prefer a lighter finish, try dusting the cod with semolina flour for an extra-crisp edge.
📦 Storage
- • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- • Cooked cod can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- • Reheat in the oven at 160°C for about 10 minutes to revive its crispness.
🍷 Pairing
Pair this Sicilian fried salt cod with a chilled glass of Grillo, a vibrant Sicilian white wine whose citrus and floral notes cut perfectly through the richness of the frying.
Whether you’re preparing a Christmas feast or simply craving a taste of Sicilian tradition, this fried salt cod brings warmth, heritage, and comfort to the table. Simple, festive, and utterly delightful - it’s a recipe to share with the people you love.
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