How to Make Spanish Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao: Stuffed Piquillo Peppers with Cod

• 1- Introduction to Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao
• 2- Ingredients Needed for Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao
• 3- Step-by-Step Guide to Making Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao
• 4- Serving and Pairing Ideas for Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao
• 5- Real-Life Example of Making Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao
• 6- Why Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao Should Be Your Next Dish

1. Introduction to Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao

Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao, or stuffed piquillo peppers with cod, is a traditional Spanish dish that brings the flavors of Spain to your table. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a meal full of flavor and texture. The piquillo pepper, a small, sweet pepper from the Navarra region in northern Spain, is ideal for stuffing due to its mild flavor and tender flesh. When paired with bacalao (salted cod), it becomes a delightful combination that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

This dish is commonly served as an appetizer in Spanish restaurants or during festive meals. Its vibrant colors and rich, savory taste make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Let’s explore how you can recreate this classic Spanish recipe at home.

Marbella

Queens CountyNew York

220-33 Northern Blvd N/A, Bayside, NY 11361, USA

2. Ingredients Needed for Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao

To make Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that will bring out the authentic flavors of Spanish cuisine. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Piquillo Peppers: These sweet, mild peppers are the star of the dish. You can find them canned in many supermarkets or specialty stores that carry Spanish products.
2. Bacalao (Salted Cod): Bacalao is the traditional salted cod used in this recipe. It’s important to soak the cod to remove the excess salt before cooking.
3. Olive Oil: High-quality Spanish olive oil adds a rich depth of flavor to the filling.
4. Garlic: Minced garlic gives the dish a savory kick that enhances the cod’s natural flavors.
5. Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
6. Tomato Paste: A little tomato paste helps to bind the filling together and adds a subtle tanginess.
7. Parsley: Fresh parsley is used for garnish and adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
8. Salt and Pepper: Season the filling to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao

Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious stuffed piquillo peppers with cod:

1. Prepare the Bacalao: Begin by soaking the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Once it’s fully desalted, cook the cod by poaching it in water until it’s tender. Then, flake the cod into small pieces, discarding any bones.
2. Make the Filling: In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Add the flaked cod, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. Stuff the Piquillo Peppers: Carefully stuff each piquillo pepper with the cod filling. You can use a spoon or your hands to stuff them, ensuring they are packed well but not overly stuffed.
4. Cook the Stuffed Peppers: In the same pan, heat a little more olive oil and gently sauté the stuffed piquillo peppers for about 5 minutes on each side until they are heated through and slightly golden. You can also simmer them in a tomato-based sauce for added flavor, but this is optional.

4. Serving and Pairing Ideas for Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao

Once you’ve prepared the piquillos rellenos de bacalao, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This dish is best served as a starter or appetizer at a gathering. It pairs wonderfully with:

1. Spanish Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Albariño complements the delicate flavors of the cod and piquillo peppers.
2. Spanish Tapas: Serve the stuffed peppers with other tapas like patatas bravas, olives, or manchego cheese for a complete Spanish feast.
3. Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty Spanish bread is perfect for soaking up any extra juices from the peppers or sauce.

5. Real-Life Story of Making Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao

Our friend Laura, an avid home cook, had always wanted to try her hand at making piquillos rellenos de bacalao after visiting a tapas bar in Barcelona. Inspired by the rich flavors she experienced, she set out to recreate the dish at home. While she initially struggled with finding authentic piquillo peppers, once she sourced them from a specialty store, the process was much easier.

Laura was thrilled with the result—her homemade stuffed piquillo peppers with cod were a hit at her dinner party. Not only did they taste just like the ones she had in Spain, but they also sparked lively conversation about Spanish cuisine. Laura’s story is a perfect example of how trying new dishes and learning about different cultures through food can bring people together.

La Tienda Tapas Bar

WilliamsburgJames City CountyVirginia

1325 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

6. Why Piquillos Rellenos de Bacalao Should Be Your Next Dish

If you’re looking to explore the world of Spanish cuisine, piquillos rellenos de bacalao is a must-try dish. Not only is it delicious and flavorful, but it also introduces you to the rich culinary traditions of Spain. The combination of tender piquillo peppers and savory bacalao makes for a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

At Rubi Spanish Table, we offer a variety of authentic Spanish ingredients and kitchen tools to help you recreate this dish at home. From piquillo peppers to bacalao, you’ll find everything you need to bring the flavors of Spain to your kitchen.