Cod Terrine with Apple Sauce

17/11/2023

Here’s how to prepare a cod terrine with apple sauce, a dish that combines Italian cuisine with elements from other traditions.

Ingredients

For the cod terrine:

300 g of pre-soaked cod
2 medium potatoes
1 clove of garlic
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

For the apple sauce:

2 golden apples
Juice of 1 lemon
30 g of sugar
1 shot of Calvados or brandy
Ground cinnamon (optional)

Preparation

First, you can cook the cod. Boil it in water for about 15-20 minutes or until it is soft and easily flaked. Drain the cod and let it cool.
Meanwhile, cook the potatoes in salted water until they are soft. Drain them, let them cool slightly and then peel them.
In a mixer, blend the cod with the potatoes, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. If you wish, you can add a bit of garlic for an extra touch of flavor.
Line a loaf pan or a terrine mold with cling film. Pour the cod and potato mixture into the mold, leveling it well. Cover with more cling film and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up the terrine.
Meanwhile, prepare the apple sauce. Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. Place them in a saucepan with the sugar, lemon juice, Calvados and a pinch of cinnamon if you like.
Cook over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, until the apples have softened and the sauce has slightly reduced. If necessary, add a bit of water during cooking. Let the sauce cool.
When ready to serve, unmold the cod terrine onto a serving plate and remove the cling film. Accompany it with the apple sauce, either cold or at room temperature.

Curiosity

Cod is a very versatile ingredient with very ancient origins. It was one of the first systems for preserving fish using salting and drying. In Italian cuisine, cod is particularly prominent during the holidays, especially at Christmas time. Pairing it with apple sauce is a way to add a touch of sweetness and tartness that balances the strong flavor of the cod.