Fish and Brewis

How to Make Fish and Brewis

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1. The night before, put the cod in one large bowl and the hard bread in another, cover each with plenty of cold water and leave them to soak overnight, changing the water on the cod at least twice.

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2. Drain the cod, break it into large pieces and put it in a large saucepan. Cover with fresh cold water and bring slowly to just below a simmer over medium heat. Poach gently for 15 minutes until the fish flakes when pressed.

   Mark done Start 15 min timer

3. Drain the hard bread and add it to the pan with the fish. Poach for 10 minutes more until it is soft and swollen.

   Mark done Start 10 min timer

4. Meanwhile, put the potatoes in a separate pan of salted water, bring to the boil and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until tender. Drain.

   Mark done Start 18 min timer

5. Put the salt pork in a cold frying pan over medium-low heat and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring now and then, until the fat has rendered and the cubes are golden and crisp.

   Mark done Start 10 min timer

6. Add the onion to the pan and cook in the fat for 5 minutes until soft and golden.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

7. Drain the fish and brewis well and pile it on warm plates alongside the potatoes.

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8. Spoon the scrunchions, onion and fat over the top, grind over the pepper and add the parsley if you like.

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Tips for Making Fish and Brewis

• Change the water on the cod at least twice while it soaks. Salt cod that has not been soaked properly is inedibly salty, and a nibble of a cooked piece will tell you whether it needs more soaking.
• Keep the cod at a bare simmer. A rolling boil breaks the flesh into shreds and makes it tough.
• Start the salt pork in a cold pan. This renders the fat slowly and leaves each cube crisp instead of burnt.

What to Serve with Fish and Brewis

• Pickled beets
• Steamed cabbage
• Homemade bread

Storing & Reheating Fish and Brewis

Best eaten straight away, while the scrunchions are still crisp. Leftover fish and brewis keeps in the fridge for up to 2 days and is often fried up the next morning.

Fish and Brewis FAQ: Common Questions

Fish and Brewis Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.