Yum Portuguese Spiritual Cod (Bacalhau Espiritual)

1. Clean the cooked cod, removing the skin and bones and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over low heat.
3. Add the onions and garlic.
4. Add the bay leaves as soon as the onion begins to soften.
5. Pour in ¼ cup of water (use the cod cooking water if available).
6. Let it boil for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor of the bay leaves.
7. Add the grated carrot, mix well, and cook over low heat for another 5 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, prepare the bread by soaking it in the milk until it softens (add more milk if necessary, depending on the type of bread you are using).
9. Preheat the oven to 392°F (200°C).
10. Add the flaked cod to the onion and carrot mixture and mix well.
11. Add the softened bread and mix again.
12. Adjust the texture with water if it is too dry (use the cod cooking water if available).
13. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
14. Spread the yogurt or cream on top and, using a fork, make holes so some of the yogurt can seep into the mixture.
15. Cover with the shredded mozzarella cheese and bake until golden brown (about 15 to 20 minutes).
16. Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Recipe & Photo Credit: Panelinha de Sabores