Salt Cod Dip

Directions

1. 1
   Soak the cod in cold water in the refrigerator for 24 hours, changing the water 4 times.
2. 2
   Drain the cod.
3. 3
   Put in a saucepan, cover with water and bring to a bare simmer; drain, then repeat with fresh water.
4. 4
   Drain again, then add the milk and cream to the pan.
5. 5
   Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and cook until the fish is flaky, about 15 minutes.
6. 6
   Reserve 1/2 cup of the milk mixture, then drain and coarsely flake the fish.
7. 7
   Put the potatoes in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
8. 8
   Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until tender, about 20 minutes; drain.
9. 9
   Let cool slightly, then press through a ricer or a food mill.
10. 10
    Meanwhile, combine the olive oil, garlic, thyme and cloves in a small saucepan; cook over low heat, 5 minutes.
11. 11
    Strain the flavored oil and set aside.
12. 12
    Put the cod, half of the flavored oil, the reserved milk mixture, the lemon juice and 1/2 cup hot water in a food processor; pulse until smooth.
13. 13
    Add the potatoes and the remaining flavored oil and pulse to combine; season with pepper.
14. 14
    Transfer to a bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
15. 15
    Serve warm with crackers.
16. 16
    Photograph by Con Poulos