Ajoarriero
why make this recipe
Ajoarriero is a classic dish that brings together the goodness of cod and the bold flavors of garlic and tomatoes. It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s also about enjoying the rich culinary heritage of Spain, where this dish originates. Making Ajoarriero allows you to explore the versatility of cod, a fish that is often underappreciated yet has a delicate taste that absorbs flavors beautifully.
This dish is perfect for both casual family dinners and festive occasions. The ingredients are simple and readily available yet come together to create something warm and comforting. Plus, it’s a great choice for those who want to prepare a healthy meal without compromising on taste. With Ajoarriero, you get a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making every bite an experience.
how to make Ajoarriero
Making Ajoarriero is simple and straightforward. You can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. Below, you will find the steps to create this delicious meal along with the ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of cod
- 1 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by pouring the olive oil into a skillet and set the heat to medium. The oil needs to warm up, providing a rich base for the flavors of the dish.
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Sauté Garlic and Onion: Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet. Sauté them gently until the onion becomes translucent. You want to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn as it can become bitter.
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Add Tomatoes: Next, stir in the diced tomatoes. They will add both moisture and a fresh flavor to the dish. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes become soft and break down a bit. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
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Cook the Cod: Carefully place the pieces of cod in the skillet. Spoon some of the tomato and onion mixture on top of the cod. This not only seasons the fish but also infuses it with the delicious flavors of garlic and tomato.
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Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer. The cod will cook through in about 10-12 minutes. You can tell it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for color and a fresh taste. Now, your Ajoarriero is ready to be enjoyed!
how to serve Ajoarriero
Serving Ajoarriero is all about highlighting its wonderful flavors. You can serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic touch, or you can use a large plate if you want to present it nicely. This dish pairs well with crusty bread, which you can use to soak up the lovely sauce that develops while cooking.
To enhance the meal, you could serve a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the dish. A glass of white wine or a light beer would also complement the flavors nicely.
Don’t forget to offer extra chopped parsley on the side for those who love a bit more green in their meal!
how to store Ajoarriero
Storing Ajoarriero is easy, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool down before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the cod rubbery and affect the flavors.
If you’re thinking of meal prep, you can prepare the tomato-garlic mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply add the cod and simmer as directed.
tips to make Ajoarriero
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Choose Fresh Cod: The quality of the cod can significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Fresh or frozen both work, but if you are using frozen, ensure it is thoroughly thawed before cooking.
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Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more than the suggested amount. Garlic adds an essential flavor to Ajoarriero, so use according to your taste.
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Add Spice: For a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion. It will add a nice depth to the dish.
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Use Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a crucial ingredient, investing in good-quality oil can elevate the overall taste of the dish.
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Garnish Creatively: While parsley is a traditional garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a different twist.
variation
Ajoarriero can easily be customized to suit your preferences. If you’re not a fan of cod, you could use other types of white fish, like haddock or tilapia, that cook similarly.
For those who enjoy vegetables, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the tomato mixture. This adds more color, flavor, and nutrition to your dish.
You could also try Ajoarriero with seafood like shrimp or even clams. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the seafood you choose to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
FAQs
1. Can I make Ajoarriero in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato and garlic mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, then when ready to eat, just add the cod and simmer for a quick meal.
2. Is Ajoarriero gluten-free?
Yes, Ajoarriero is gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients. It’s a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
3. What should I serve with Ajoarriero?
Ajoarriero pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Can I freeze Ajoarriero?
It’s not recommended to freeze Ajoarriero once it’s cooked, as the texture of the fish may change. However, you can freeze the tomato and garlic mixture before adding the fish, then cook it fresh when you’re ready.
5. What type of olive oil should I use?
Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It’s worth investing in a quality oil, as it plays a significant role in the dish.
Ajoarriero
Ajoarriero is a classic Spanish dish featuring cod cooked in a rich garlic and tomato sauce, making it a delightful and comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of cod
- 1 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until soft (about 5-7 minutes).
- Place the cod in the skillet, spooning the tomato mixture on top of the fish.
- Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the cod flakes easily.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread for a rustic view, and consider offering steamed vegetables or a simple salad on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
