Entree: Svalbard and Jan Mayen – Southern Culinary Region – Norwegian Cod Casserole (Baked creamy cod and potato casserole flavored with leeks, mustard, and dill)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 50 min

Additional 5 min

Total 1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

- 4 cod fillets, approx. 1.5 lb (680 g) total, skinless and cut into portions
- 1 lb (450 g) waxy potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 cups/600 g sliced)
- 1 large leek (white and light green parts), sliced and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) butter
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp (5 ml) salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Jarlsberg or mild Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup (60 g) fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) chopped fresh dill
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onion and leek until softened and lightly translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared dish. Season lightly with 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) of the salt and a pinch of pepper.
4. Spread the sautéed leek and onion evenly over the potatoes. Layer the cod pieces on top of the leeks.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, Dijon mustard, remaining salt, pepper, and chopped dill. Pour the cream mixture over the fish and vegetables so it comes nearly to the top of the dish.
6. Cover with the remaining potato slices in an even layer. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the potatoes, then scatter the breadcrumbs on top for a crisp crust.
7. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, the casserole is bubbling, and the top is golden brown.
8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with lemon wedges and a simple green vegetable or boiled root vegetables on the side.