Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most iconic and delicious ways to enjoy salted codfish in Portuguese cuisine. This dish combines flaky cod, crispy matchstick potatoes, caramelized onions, and silky eggs, creating an irresistible balance of flavors and textures.
This recipe includes 600g of codfish, ensuring a heartier and more flavorful dish. Follow the simple steps below and bring this classic recipe to life in your own kitchen!

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)
- 600g salted codfish, desalted and shredded
- 300g batata palha (matchstick chips)
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 120ml olive oil (plus extra for finishing)
- 1 bay leaf (for infusing oil)
- 5 whole eggs + 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Black olives (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Infuse the olive oil – In a large pan over low heat, warm the olive oil with the bay leaf for 2-3 minutes. Remove the bay leaf before proceeding.
2️⃣ Slow-cook the onion – Add the sliced onions, cover, and let them cook over very low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until extra soft and golden.
3️⃣ Add the garlic – Once the onions are nearly soft, add the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently.
4️⃣ Cook the cod – Increase to medium heat, add the shredded codfish, and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring to combine with the onions.
5️⃣ Add the matchstick chips – Gently mix in the batata palha, allowing it to absorb the flavors while staying slightly crispy.
6️⃣ Incorporate the eggs – Lower the heat. Pour in the beaten eggs with extra yolks, stirring gently until they reach a soft, creamy consistency. Do not overcook!
7️⃣ Season & serve – Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and black olives.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
🔥 Pro Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil before serving to enhance the flavors!
Enjoy this traditional Portuguese dish and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to tag me when you try it. 💛