Parsnip Stew Old Cape Cod Recipes

CODFISH FILLET WITH PARSNIP PURéE

Steps:

• Heat 2 quarts of water to boiling in a 6-quart stockpot. Add the parsnips and cook until tender, 10 minutes or so. Do not overcook. Drain, and in 2 batches pulse in a food processor with the butter and enough half and half to make a smooth consistency. Season carefully. The ginger taste should be subtle, not forceful. Keep warm.
• Cut the cod into four equal portions. Season flour with salt and pepper and dust fish lightly.
• Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high flame. Add oil and butter and when shimmering carefully place cod, skinned side down, in the pan. Adjust flame, and when underside has begun to brown (about 3 minutes) turn each piece with wide spatula and wooden tongs. Be careful that cod doesn't crumble or break apart. When cod is cooked through (after 6 or 7 minutes altogether, depending upon thickness), remove from heat.
• To serve, mound a portion of parnsip purée on each warm plate and carefully place cod atop purée. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve with boiled sweet peas or spinach sautéed in oil and garlic.

SMOKY COD AND PARSNIP CHOWDER

Steps:

• If the smoked cod has a strong smoky flavor, soak it in water for 30 minutes, drain, and rinse.
• In a large saucepan, cover the cod and smoked cod with water, and add the juice of half a lemon and the thyme. Bring the cooking liquid to a gentle simmer. Poach the fish for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked and tender. Remove the fish to a bowl, and reserve the poaching liquid. When the fish has cooled enough to handle, break it into large bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• While the cod is cooking, peel the parsnips, and cut them into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Peel the potatoes, cut them into 1/2 inch dice, and place them in a bowl of water to prevent discoloring.
• In a large saucepan or kettle, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine over medium heat. Add onion, and cook until wilted and golden. Add the parsnips, potatoes, and 3 cups of the reserved poaching liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Heat the milk and cream in a small saucepan. Do not boil. Stir to the vegetable mixture.
• Add cod and smoked cod; stir. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in remaining tablespoon of butter. Top each serving with freshly ground pepper and chives.