Guanimes con Bacalao: A Traditional Puerto Rican Delight
Guanimes con Bacalao, a traditional Puerto Rican dish, is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for a cold winter day. The dish is made with salted cod, plantains, and a variety of vegetables, all simmered in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salted cod, desalted and flaked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 green plantain, peeled and sliced
- 1 ripe plantain, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the green and red bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes more.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the flaked cod and plantains to the pot and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the plantains are tender.
- Stir in the cilantro and serve hot.
Tips:
- To desalt the cod, soak it in cold water for at least 2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth if desired.
- For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper.
- Guanimes con Bacalao is best served with white rice and a side of avocado.
Guanimes con Bacalao is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds. It is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine. Enjoy!