I absolutely love cooking cod, and I understand that seafood can be a bit intimidating, but trust me - it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding dishes to prepare. With a few simple tricks, you can create a delightful and versatile meal that your whole family will enjoy.
For this recipe, I've chosen cod, but you can apply the same techniques to other fish like salmon, tilapia, halibut, or any firm-fleshed fish.
When it comes to oil, I opt for canola instead of butter. Canola has a higher smoke point, preventing it from burning too quickly.
I add a pat of butter in the last few minutes of cooking to baste the fish, giving it that rich, nutty flavor. And let's not forget about high heat! Crank it up to create a beautiful sear on the fish before finishing it in a preheated oven at 425°F.
This high-temperature method ensures a moist and flavorful result, perfect for those hectic weeknight dinners.
Now, why do I love making this dish so much? Well, beyond its simplicity and deliciousness, cod cooks quickly. This means dinner can be on the table in a flash, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
And I appreciate any recipe that allows me to spend less time in the kitchen without compromising on taste!
FAQs
What are the basic rules for how to cook cod?
Firstly, I always recommend a good quality non-stick cast iron or stainless steel pan. When it comes to fragile, flaky fish it’s essential that it will definitely not stick to the pan.
Canola oil should always be the first liquid in the pan, instead of butter, to prevent burning. And high heat is a must! In order to keep your fish moist you need to get a good sear on it prior to cooking in the oven.
What temperature should I cook cod at?
If you’re using a gas stove to sear your cod, have the flame at medium-high heat. For an electric stovetop, you’ll want it set to high. Then finish in a preheated oven at 425°F for 12-14 minutes.
How should I season my fish?
Keep it simple. Cod tastes amazing with just sea salt, coarse black pepper, and a squirt of lemon after cooking. Adding fresh herbs is always a great way to kick things up as well.
This Seared Salmon recipe is one of the most popular recipes on the blog, and I added fresh sage to the pan as it cooked. Usually, I prefer to add the chopped herbs as a garnish and sprinkle them on the plate right before serving.
This also makes the presentation impressive and keeps the flavors fresh. Fish doesn't need any heavy sauces, but if you prefer a sauce, keep them light and fresh, like this Citrus Butter Sauce with Fresh Basil.
How long does cod take to cook?
Each cod portion in this recipe typically weighs between 6-8 ounces and requires searing for approximately 3-4 minutes on the initial side. After that, the pan is moved to a preheated oven for an additional 12-14 minutes to cook.
To determine the readiness of the cod, gently press it with your finger; if it feels firm, it's ready, but if it’s still soft, it may need a few more minutes. When lightly pressed with a fork, the fish should effortlessly separate into beautiful white flakes.
Can I cook my cod ahead of time and reheat it?
I wouldn't recommend it. Freshness is key, and reheating might result in dry fish. Besides, with this recipe, dinner will be ready in less than 30 minutes!
What can I serve my cod with?
The question is - what CAN’T you serve your cod with? This recipe for how to cook cod is incredibly versatile. Try serving with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Cauliflower rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Wilted spinach with lemon
- Penne pasta
- Steamed veggies
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