Cod Around the World: The Fish That Conquered Cultures

Let’s talk cod.

Not the sexiest headline, but stay with us. This humble, flaky fish has been quietly making waves in kitchens around the world for centuries. From salted stews in Europe to fish cakes in New England, this is the fish that built nations, fed armies, and probably saved a few cold winters from total despair. And yet, somehow, cod doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Until now.

🇳🇴 Norway: Where Cod Is Practically a Religion
In Norway, cod isn’t just dinner — it’s legacy.
They’ve got Bacalao, a rich, tomatoey stew with potatoes and olives that’s pure winter comfort. Then there’s Lutefisk, the lye-soaked, gelatinous cousin that Norwegians serve at Christmas. It’s… an acquired taste.
And of course, there’s cod liver oil, that beloved childhood memory in a bottle — packed with omega-3s and trauma.

🇵🇹 Portugal: The Kingdom of Bacalhau
Portugal takes cod and turns it into art. Literally — they say there’s a recipe for bacalhau for every day of the year.
Two favorites?
Bacalhau à Brás: shredded cod with onions, matchstick potatoes, and eggs.
Bacalhau com natas: creamy, dreamy, and baked to perfection.
In Portugal, cod isn’t just fish — it’s culture. And it shows.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom: Fish and Chips Royalty
Over in the UK, fish and chips is sacred. And if it’s not made with cod? Don’t bother.
Battered, fried, and served with salt, vinegar, and attitude.
They also throw cod into pies and fish cakes — carb-on-carb excellence that proves comfort food is alive and well.

🇺🇸 United States: New England’s Unsung Hero
Cod is the cornerstone of New England cuisine.
We’re talking cod cakes, buttery baked cod, and those creamy, soul-soothing chowders.
Forget the overpriced halibut — when it’s fresh, cod is sweet, tender, and doesn’t need much more than lemon, herbs, and a little respect.

🇪🇸 Spain: Garlic, Olive Oil, and a Whole Lotta Flavor
Spain brings the drama, as always.
From the Basque region, there’s Bacalao al Pil-Pil, where garlic and olive oil practically do a tango.
And Brandada de bacalao, a creamy, garlicky cod spread that’ll ruin you for anything store-bought.

🇧🇷 Brazil: Cod Fritters for the Win
Thanks to Portuguese roots, Brazil knows how to do cod right.
Bolinhos de bacalhau — crispy, golden cod fritters — show up at holidays, parties, and anywhere people want to eat well and be happy.

🇮🇹 Italy: Where Even Cod Gets Glamorous
In Italy, it’s baccalà, and it’s pure elegance.
Baccalà alla vicentina simmers low and slow with onions and milk until it’s soft and lush.
In the north, baccalà mantecato — whipped cod with olive oil — is spread on crostini like seafood butter. Because Italians know how to live.

🌍 West Africa: Cod Meets Heat and Heart
In Nigeria, Ghana, and beyond, salted cod joins rich tomato stews and rice, bringing deep umami to bold, spiced dishes.
It’s a survival food turned superstar — resilient, reliable, and always welcome at the table.


In a world obsessed with what’s new, flashy, or flown in from ten thousand miles away, cod is the quiet hero. It’s been nourishing cultures, telling stories, and bringing people together long before food went digital.
And maybe — just maybe — it’s time we gave cod the spotlight it’s earned.

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