Revuelto de Bacalao con Piquillos
SpanishBrunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Revuelto de Bacalao con Piquillos is a beloved Spanish brunch specialty that showcases the country's affinity for simple yet sophisticated egg dishes. Originating from the Basque region, this revuelto (scrambled eggs) elevates humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The salt cod is first desalted and gently poached, then folded into creamy, slow-cooked scrambled eggs along with sweet piquillo peppers. The key to this dish is patience - the eggs are cooked over low heat, stirred constantly to achieve a silky, custard-like consistency. Traditionally served with crusty bread for dipping, this dish represents the Spanish philosophy of taking time to enjoy good food with family and friends. The combination of the tender cod, subtly sweet peppers, and rich eggs creates a harmonious balance that has made this a staple in Spanish homes and restaurants for generations.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water 3-4 times to remove excess salt. Drain and pat dry.

  2. Cut the desalted cod into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones or skin.

  3. Dice the piquillo peppers into small strips and set aside.

  4. Mince the garlic cloves finely.

  5. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat.

  6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.

  7. Add the cod pieces to the skillet and cook gently for 5-6 minutes, breaking them into flakes with a wooden spoon.

  8. Add the diced piquillo peppers to the cod mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes.

  9. In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them lightly with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

  10. Pour the beaten eggs over the cod and pepper mixture in the skillet.

  11. Reduce heat to low and cook the eggs slowly, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula in a figure-eight motion.

  12. Continue stirring gently for 8-10 minutes until the eggs are creamy and just set, but still slightly wet.

  13. Remove from heat immediately - the residual heat will finish cooking the eggs.

  14. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley.

  15. Serve immediately with toasted bread slices.

Revuelto de Bacalao con Piquillos

5.0 (21)

A luxurious Spanish scrambled eggs dish featuring salt cod and sweet roasted peppers, perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch. This Basque-inspired recipe combines silky eggs with flaky cod and smoky piquillo peppers.

medium
45 min
4 servings

Ingredients

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Main

  • 8 pieces Eggs, lightly beaten
  • 6 pieces Bell Peppers, roasted and diced (piquillo peppers preferred)

Aromatics

  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced

Fat

  • 4 tablespoons Olive Oil, extra virgin

Seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoons Salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons Parsley, fresh, chopped (optional)

Accompaniment

  • 8 slices Bread, crusty, toasted

Chef Tips

expert advice
The secret to perfect revuelto is low and slow cooking - never rush the eggs or they will become dry and rubbery.
For extra richness, some cooks add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the eggs.
This dish is best enjoyed immediately as the eggs can become watery if left to sit.
Traditional accompaniments include crusty bread, a simple green salad, and a glass of crisp white wine.
You can prepare the cod and peppers ahead of time, but always cook the eggs fresh just before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
If you cannot find salt cod, you can substitute with fresh cod and add salt to taste, though the texture will be slightly different.
Piquillo peppers are sweet Spanish roasted peppers available in jars; if unavailable, substitute with roasted red bell peppers.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

This dish is best consumed immediately and does not store well due to the delicate nature of the scrambled eggs. If you must store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day. The texture will change and the eggs may release liquid.

Reheating

Reheating is not recommended as it will overcook the eggs and make them rubbery. If necessary, reheat very gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring constantly, for just 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore some moisture.

Revuelto de Bacalao con Piquillos | Cuisinao