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1
Soak the cod in refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours in several changes of cold water.
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2
Drain cod, rinse a few times and drain well again.
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3
Remove bones and skin and with your fingers pull the cod into small shreds; set aside (You can save time by purchasing skinless and boneless cod).
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4
In a large heavy skillet over low heat, saute onions in 3 tbsp (45 ml) of olive oil about 15 minutes, until very soft and golden.
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5
Meanwhile stir-fry potatoes in 2 tbsp (30 ml) of olive oil in a second large skillet over moderately low heat for about 2 minutes until they begin to color; then add the water.
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6
Cover and cook over lowest heat for 15 minutes; remove from heat and reserve covered.
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7
Once onions are golden, mix in cod and 1/2 cup (125 ml) of milk, cover and cook over lowest heat, stirring occasionally for 30 minutes.
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8
While cod cooks, melt butter in a small heavy saucepan over moderate heat and blend in flour; add 1-1/4 cups (300 ml) milk and heat, stirring constantly, until thick and smooth about 3 minutes.
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9
Blend in white pepper and set aside.
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10
When cod has 10 minutes left to cook, preheat oven to 450 degrees (225 C.).
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11
Add potatoes, white sauce and cream to cod mixture; mix well.
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12
Transfer to a buttered shallow 3 quarts (2850 ml) casserole.
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13
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, lower to 350 degrees (175 C.) and continue baking uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly and tipped with brown.
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14
Serve hot.