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Gratin cod with bechamel — Mediterranean cuisine recipe

Mediterranean

Gratin cod with bechamel

Cod gratin with bechamel from Spain: traditional recipe step by step, with chef tips and clear times

  • Spain
  • Main course
  • High protein
  • medium

50 min

Tiempo total

25 min

Preparation

25 min

Cooking

4

Servings

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Difficulty: Medium Type: Main course Origin: Spain Category: Mediterranean

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories 445 kcal
  • Protein 40 g
  • Fiber 1 g
  • Carbohydrates 18 g
  • Fat 24 g
  • Sodium 920 mg

Story behind the dish

Cod gratin with bechamel is a heritage of Franco-Spanish cuisine from the 19th century, when white sauces reached the homes of the Cantabrian coast. It is prepared at Easter and Christmas as a comforting festive dish. The golden layer of cheese on the cod defines its classic presentation.

Preparation

Cod gratin with bechamel is a Spanish preparation with medium difficulty. Reserve about 50 minutes in total (25 for mise en place and preparation, 25 for cooking). Follow the 6 phases in order: each step indicates what to do, what to observe and, when applicable, the time or level of fire.

Before you start

  • Have ready: 800 g of desalted cod in pieces.
  • Have ready: 500 ml of whole milk.
  • Have ready: 50 g of butter.
  • Have ready: 50 g of wheat flour.
  • Have ready: 100 g of grated Gruyere cheese.
  • Salt, oil and spices measured and within reach.
  • Clean utensils, board and clear work surface.
  1. Prepare bechamel: melt butter

    Add flour, cook for 2 minutes and add hot milk without lumps

    • 2 min
  2. Season with nutmeg

    salt, pepper and half of the Gruyere cheese; cook until thick

    Taste before serving: the balance between salt, acidity and fat defines the final result

  3. Saute the onion in oil

    Place the cod in a baking dish and cover with the onion

    Preheat the oven well in advance so that the temperature is stable from the first minute

  4. Pour the bechamel on top

    sprinkle remaining cheese, breadcrumbs and parsley

  5. Gratin in the oven at 220 C for 12-15 minutes until…

    Gratin in the oven at 220 C for 12-15 minutes until the surface is golden and bubbly. Look for a uniform golden color; The seal concentrates flavor and prevents it from releasing too much liquid later

    Look for a uniform golden color; The seal concentrates flavor and prevents it from releasing too much liquid later

    • 15 min
  6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving with green salad

    Resting time is not optional: it improves texture, hydrates fibers and balances flavors

    • 5 min

Variations

  • Version with sautéed spinach under cod.

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