There’s something timeless about a Spanish dinner recipe. It’s more than nourishment—it’s an invitation to gather, share stories, and enjoy a meal prepared with care. As a chef, I believe cooking is an expression of affection, and few recipes embody that sentiment better than Merluza a la Gallega. This traditional Galician dish celebrates simple, fresh ingredients assembled to create warm, comforting flavors that bring people together.
Ingredients
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4 fresh hake fillets (about 200 g each)
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600 g potatoes (peeled and cut into thick rounds)
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1 large onion (thinly sliced into rings)
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2 garlic cloves (minced)
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1 teaspoon sweet paprika
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100 ml extra virgin olive oil
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150 ml fish stock (or water)
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2 bay leaves
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A handful of fresh parsley (chopped)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
These straightforward ingredients combine to make a dish that is elegant yet comforting—ideal for family dinners or a relaxed meal with friends.
Preparation
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Prepare the base: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil with the bay leaves. Add the potato rounds and onion rings and cook until tender but still holding their shape, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and keep warm.
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Infuse the oil: Warm the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant and lightly golden—avoid browning. Remove from the heat and stir in the sweet paprika; this releases its aroma and colors the oil a rich red.
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Poach the hake: Season the hake fillets with salt and pepper. Place them in a wide pan with the fish stock (or water) and simmer gently over low heat for 6–8 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Gentle poaching preserves the fish’s delicate texture and flavor.
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Assemble: Lay the warm potatoes and onions on a serving platter as a bed for the hake. Place the cooked fillets on top and spoon the paprika-infused oil over the fish and potatoes, ensuring each portion is well coated.
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Garnish and serve: Scatter chopped parsley over the dish for freshness and color. Serve immediately—this dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Merluza a la Gallega is a reminder that great cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you can create a meal that honors Spanish culinary tradition and brings people together. Enjoy the gentle flavors and the feeling of sharing a lovingly prepared plate with those you care about.