Ingredients
4 pieces of cod fillets (6-8 oz each)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for added freshness)
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the rice:
1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati rice)
2 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Cod Fillets
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the cod fillets. If you haven’t done so already, pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the marinade adhere better and ensure a crispier texture during baking.
2. Marinate the Cod
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, and chili flakes. This marinade will infuse the fish with delicious Asian-inspired flavors, balancing salty, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the fish. Allow the cod to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes, or up to an hour if you prefer a deeper flavor. Be sure to flip the fillets halfway through marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.
3. Cook the Rice
While the cod is marinating, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the jasmine rice and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. This will give the rice a fragrant, savory flavor that complements the cod perfectly.
4. Bake the Cod
After the cod has marinated, place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
5. Serve the Dish
Once the cod is ready, remove it from the oven and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the prepared rice onto individual plates, and serve the baked cod fillets on top or alongside the rice. Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and color.
Preparation Time
Cod marinating time: 20-30 minutes (up to 1 hour for deeper flavor)
Rice cooking time: 18-20 minutes
Total cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving consisting of one cod fillet and a portion of the flavored rice. It’s a great dish to serve for a family dinner, or even as part of a larger spread for a gathering.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute cod with another type of fish?
Yes, you can use other white fish like tilapia, haddock, or snapper. These fish have a similar texture and will work well with the marinade.
2. Is it necessary to marinate the fish?
While marinating enhances the flavor, it’s not strictly necessary. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but the cod will benefit from the added flavor if marinated.
3. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce to the marinade for extra heat. Adjust to your taste preference.
4. Can I prepare the rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the rice in advance and reheat it before serving. However, freshly cooked rice will provide the best texture and flavor.
5. What should I serve with this dish?
This baked Asian cod and rice dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy. You could also serve a light salad or pickled vegetables for added freshness.
