Ingredients

1 lb potato , peeled , sliced and par boiled
2 1/2 cups fish or 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
1 lb cod , skinned and cut into 4 fillets
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
2 ounces butter
1 onion , sliced
1 ounce cornstarch
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 ounces mushrooms , sliced
2 red peppers , sliced
1 slice lemon ( to garnish ) ( optional )
The Basque Country in Spain is known for its delicious cuisine, especially seafood. This dish, also known as 'Merluza en Salsa,' is a staple in Basque cooking. The spicy tomato sauce is a signature element of the dish and gives a depth of flavor to the mild cod fillet. This recipe is a take on the classic Basque version and is easy to make at home. It's a great dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, or to impress guests at a dinner party.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2.Arrange the par boiled sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
3.Season the cod fillets with Old Bay seasoning and lemon juice, and place them on top of the potatoes.
4.In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the onions until tender.
5.Sprinkle cornstarch over the onions, stir well, and add tomato paste and cayenne pepper.
6.Slowly add the chicken or fish stock, stir well and cook until the sauce has thickened.
7.Add thyme, sliced mushrooms and red peppers to the saucepan and cook for another 5 minutes.
8.Pour the sauce over the cod fillets, cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
9.Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cod is cooked through.
10.Garnish with lemon slices, if desired, and serve hot.

PROS

This Basque style cod recipe bursts with flavors.
The crispy and tender cod fillet is perfectly complemented by the spicy tomato sauce.

It’s a great dish for fish lovers and those who like a little heat in their meals.

CONS

This dish requires some preparation and time.
The potatoes need to be sliced and par boiled, and the sauce takes a while to thicken.

Also, be careful with the cayenne pepper and adjust according to your taste, as it can be quite spicy.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Cod is a great source of lean protein, vitamins B6 and B12, and minerals such as phosphorus and selenium.
The sauce contains red peppers, which are a good source of vitamin C and provide potent antioxidants. The cayenne pepper may also boost metabolism and help with digestion.

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