Delicious Homemade Brandade de Morue (Salt Cod Purée) Recipe

If you're a lover of Mediterranean flavors or looking for a comforting, gourmet appetizer, then making Brandade de Morue at home is a fantastic choice. This classic French dish features a velvety blend of salt cod, potatoes, garlic, and olive oil — creating a rich, savory purée that’s perfect spread on crusty bread or served as a main course.

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) salt cod (morue)

2 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup (120ml) good quality extra virgin olive oil

½ cup (120ml) milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Crusty baguette or toasted bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Desalting the Salt Cod

Rinse the salt cod thoroughly under cold water to remove surface salt.

Place the fish in a large bowl and cover with cold water.

Change the water every 6-8 hours for at least 24 hours (up to 48 hours for very salty cod). 

This step is crucial to achieving a balanced flavor.

2. Cooking the Salt Cod

Drain the desalinated cod and place it in a pot of boiling water.

Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the fish is tender.

Drain and let it cool slightly, then flake the flesh into small pieces, discarding any skin and bones.

3. Preparing the Potatoes

Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.

Boil in salted water until very tender (about 15 minutes).

Drain and mash until smooth. For an extra silky texture, you can pass the mashed potatoes through a sieve.

4. Blending the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine the flaked salt cod, mashed potatoes, and minced garlic.

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending or mixing, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

If you prefer a richer, more decadent texture, add the milk or cream gradually, mixing well.

5. Seasoning and Final Touches

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed — note that the salt cod is already salty, so be cautious.

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Spread onto toasted baguette slices or serve as a dip with crusty bread.

Garnish with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh contrast.

Pair with a crisp white wine or a glass of Provençal rosé for a true regional experience.

Tips for Perfect Brandade

Proper desalting is key—don’t skip this step!

Use high-quality olive oil for richness and authenticity.

Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Brandade de Morue is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Provence right into your kitchen. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it a versatile dish that’s perfect for appetizers, light lunches, or elegant dinners. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of the sea with every bite!

Bon appétit!