Baccalà mantecato

Step 1

Cook the polenta according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spread on to a baking sheet lined with a sheet of baking paper

Step 2

Place another sheet of baking paper on top, followed by another baking tray. Squeeze together gently to flatten the polenta then place a heavy saucepan on top to weigh it down. Leave to cool completely

Step 3

Place the fish in a saucepan with the milk, peppercorns and bay leaf. Bring to the boil and simmer very gently for about 10 minutes. Take off the heat, cover and leave for another 10 minutes

Step 4

Remove the fish from the milk and then mash it into flakes with a fork, removing the skin and any bones that remain

Step 5

Place the fish in a food processor with 2–3 tablespoons of the milk. Pulse until it forms a paste

Step 6

On low speed, add the oil little by little as if making mayonnaise. When you've used all of the oil the baccalà should have a light and fluffy consistency

Step 7

Taste and adjust the seasoning as required. If you used salt cod, you probably won’t need to add any salt. Leave to cool, garnish with a little parsley, then keep in the fridge until ready to serve

Step 8

Cut the polenta into rectangles (about 5cm x 10cm) and toast on both sides (under a grill or in a pan). Serve the baccalà with a piece of polenta per person and a glass of Prosecco della Valdobbiadene