Cod

Tricks for Desalting Cod

 
Max. D Gray
By Max. D Gray. Updated: September 15, 2025
Tricks for Desalting Cod
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Preserving food in brine is a method that's widely used, for example, in the case of fish such as cod. Even then, this involves a process to desalt it to remove the excess salt prior to preparation of the food in question. Desalting cod is not complicated, but it takes time and patience so the fish does not end up too salty. So, this OneHowTo offers some tricks for desalting cod so you'll achieve a unique result.

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Contents
  1. Tricks for desalting cod: change the water
  2. Tricks for desalting cod: milk
  3. Tricks for desalting cod: use a strainer or sieve
  4. Tricks for desalting cod: warm water

Tricks for desalting cod: change the water

Although many people may already know this trick for desalting cod, it is important that everyone is aware. To remove the salt from the fish, you need to soak the pieces in water. However, only soaking the fish won't be enough, and you'll need to keep changing the water in the container. Changing the water every 8 hours at least is crucial for removing salt from fish. The entire process of desalting varies depending on the size of the pieces, but you must leave the cod in water for at least two or three full days. This method ensures that the salt is thoroughly extracted from the fish, allowing it to retain its natural flavor and texture. It's a simple yet effective technique that has been used for generations.

Tricks for Desalting Cod - Tricks for desalting cod: change the water
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Tricks for desalting cod: milk

A fool proof method for rapidly desalting cod is to soak it in some cold milk. In this case, you don't need to change it like with water, but simply leave the cod in milk for about 2 or 3 hours. After this time the cod will have lost all of its saltiness and it will be ready to cook. This method is particularly useful when you're short on time and still want a perfectly desalted fish. The proteins in the milk help draw out the salt more effectively than water alone.

Tricks for Desalting Cod - Tricks for desalting cod: milk
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Tricks for desalting cod: use a strainer or sieve

Another good trick when removing the salt from cod is to put it in a colander, strainer or sieve when it comes to submerging it in a bowl of water. In this way, the fish rests above the salt that has been strained off and therefore the salt is removed better. It is also important to place it skin up, so the salt in the meat will be removed more easily. By elevating the fish, you prevent it from reabsorbing the salt that settles at the bottom of the container. This method is not only practical but also helps maintain the integrity of the fish's texture.

Tricks for Desalting Cod - Tricks for desalting cod: use a strainer or sieve
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Tricks for desalting cod: warm water

Although it's not really recommended, if you're in a hurry when it comes to desalting the cod, you can sometimes opt for immersing the cod in warm water. Warm water will make the salt in your cod come off more easily. You can also speed up the process by flaking your cod so desalting will happen quicker and you can prepare your recipe. However, remember you should only use this trick in emergencies. Using warm water can alter the texture of the fish, making it less firm, which is why it's best reserved for situations where time is of the essence.

Tricks for Desalting Cod - Tricks for desalting cod: warm water
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Tricks for Desalting Cod