Salt Cod Preparation Guide: How to Desalt Baccalà & Bacalao
Salt Cod | Preparation Guide | Whole Fillets | Home Cooking
Sourced directly from the cold, clear waters of the North Atlantic, Salt cod, known as baccalà in Italian and bacalao in Spanish, is cod preserved by salting and drying. To prepare salt cod for cooking, soak it in cold water in the refrigerator, changing the water regularly to remove excess salt and rehydrate the fish. Our North Atlantic salt cod is ideal for traditional baccalà recipes, from fried cod to hearty tomato-based stews.
At a Glance
- Total Prep Time: 48 to 72 hours depending on fillet thickness.
- Method: Fully submerged in a cold-water bath.
- Maintenance: Fresh water changes required every 8 hours.
- Storage: Must remain refrigerated throughout the entire process.
Soaking Time by Cut
Small or thin pieces 24 to 36 hours
Medium fillet portions 36 to 48 hours
Thick whole fillets 48 to 72 hours
Very thick or heavily cured May need longer
These are starting ranges. Change the water about every eight hours and confirm doneness by cooking and tasting a small piece from the thickest section.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 80 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Ingredients: Atlantic Cod, Sea Salt
How to Desalt Salt Cod: Cold-Water Soaking Steps
- Rinse: Hold the salt cod under cold running water to rub away loose surface crystals.
- Submerge: Place the fillet in a roomy glass or food-safe plastic container. Completely cover the fish with cold water.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator immediately. The fish must remain below 40°F.
- Change Water: Drain the bowl and add fresh cold water every eight hours.
- Test: After two to three days, cut a small piece from the thickest center section. Cook it gently until opaque, then taste it. If the seasoning is right, the cod is ready to dry and use. If it is still too salty, soak for another eight hours.
Once your fish is perfectly rehydrated and desalted, it is ready to be flaked for fritters, baked into casseroles, or tossed into a traditional holiday salad. If you are ready to start prepping, you can find our skinless and boneless salt cod fillets here.