Vegan Puerto Rican Bacalao: A Flavorful and Cultural Delight

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a dish that has been a staple for generations: Bacalao. Traditionally made with salted cod, this recipe has been lovingly adapted to embrace a vegan lifestyle, retaining all the vibrant flavors and cultural significance that make it so beloved.

The Story Behind Bacalao

Bacalao, or dried cod, was brought to the Caribbean by Spanish colonizers and quickly became an integral part of Puerto Rican cuisine. The dish, often served at family gatherings and special occasions, is a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage. By using plant-based ingredients, we can enjoy this classic dish while aligning with modern dietary preferences.

Vegan Bacalao a la Vizcaína

This vegan version of Bacalao a la Vizcaína is a hearty, flavorful stew that combines the best of Puerto Rican spices and ingredients with a cruelty-free twist.

Ingredients

• Protein Substitute: 1 cup of chickpeas, drained and mashed with a fork (or use hearts of palm for a more traditional texture)
• Tomato Puree: 3 cups of roasted plum tomatoes
• White Onion: 1 medium onion, diced (about 2 cups)
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
• Olives and Capers: ⅓ cup of sliced pitted manzanilla olives and 1 tablespoon of capers
• Red Bell Peppers: 3 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and cut into strips
• Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf
• Nori Flakes: 1-2 teaspoons of finely chopped nori flakes
• New Potatoes: 1 lb of new potatoes, cooked, peeled, and cut in half
• Parsley: ¼ cup of chopped parsley
• Pickled Peppers: 3 pickled pepperoni or banana peppers, whole or sliced
• Puerto Rican Adobo Seasoning Blend:
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomato Puree: Roast 10 medium plum tomatoes until they’re soft, then blend them into a puree.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Tomato Puree and Spices: Pour in the tomato puree and add the Puerto Rican Adobo Seasoning Blend. Stir well to combine.
4. Include the Chickpeas and Nori Flakes: Add the mashed chickpeas (or hearts of palm) and nori flakes. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
5. Add Olives, Capers, and Bell Peppers: Introduce the sliced olives, capers, and roasted red bell peppers. Mix well.
6. Incorporate Potatoes and Bay Leaf: Add the cooked new potatoes and a bay leaf to the pot. Season with salt if needed.
7. Simmer and Serve: Let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and pickled peppers.

Why This Recipe Works

• Chickpeas or Hearts of Palm: These ingredients provide a meaty texture that mimics the traditional cod. In Puerto Rico, hearts of palm are a common substitute and can be easily found.
• Puerto Rican Adobo Seasoning Blend: This blend of spices is a cornerstone of Puerto Rican cuisine, adding a rich and aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Roasted Tomatoes: Fresh and roasted tomatoes bring a deep, tangy flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
• Splash of Freshness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can balance the flavors and add a touch of brightness to the stew.

Cultural Significance

Bacalao is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of community and tradition. In Puerto Rico, family gatherings often center around this dish, filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of shared meals. By adapting this recipe to be vegan, we’re ensuring that everyone can partake in this cultural delight, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Tips for Making it Extra Special

• Use TVP if Needed: If you prefer a different texture, TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is a great option and is easily available in Puerto Rico. It’s an affordable and versatile alternative.
• Balance with Lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavors and add health benefits.
• Serve with Traditional Sides: Pair this dish with fried plantains, garlic bread, or a simple side salad to keep the meal authentic and delicious.

Enjoy your Vegan Puerto Rican Bacalao, a dish that blends tradition with modern compassion, bringing everyone to the table to share in the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico.

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