The story began in 1986 with the opening of a family tavern. Guests tried our creamed cod (bakalar na bijelo) and started ordering it to take away, reveals Milena Stefanov, whose family created the Baccalà della Mamma brand and today exports cod products from the small Istrian village of Bačva all across Europe. We started out preparing a few kilograms of cod a day, whipping it by hand, then we invested in production and in 1996 opened the first dedicated salt-cod shop in Croatia. Today we produce a hundred tonnes of cod products a year, adds Milena’s son Aleksandar Stefanov, who together with his wife Luiza now stands behind the family brand. 
The classic preparation of premium Norwegian creamed cod remains the best-known delicacy of the Istrian salt-cod house, but the range has been enriched with spreads and pâtés featuring black truffles, red pepper and chilli, as well as green olives and olive oil. Our philosophy goes beyond taste alone. It celebrates cod as an exceptionally healthy food, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein and vitamins, which also offers the body excellent protection, Aleksandar emphasises.
We should add that creamed cod pairs beautifully with skin-macerated Malvazija Istarska, so Ipša Malvazija or Kabola Malvazija Amfora would be an excellent choice. Our Wine Hunter, meanwhile, also recommends the lovely Slavonian dry, aromatic red Krauthaker Muškat ruža alongside the creamed cod.
11.12.2025.
