Method
Prepare the Cod
Desalting the Cod: Start by soaking the salted cod in cold water for at least 24-48 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. After soaking, drain and rinse the cod, then cut it into chunks.
Sauté the Base
In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook gently until they become translucent and soft, about 15-20 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes to the pan, along with the white wine, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the Cod
Gently place the cod pieces into the pan, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the fish to become tender.
Final Touches
After an hour, check the consistency of the sauce. If it's too thick, add a splash of water or more wine.
Remove the bay leaves, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve
Let the dish stand for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve warm with crusty bread or polenta on the side.