How To Cook Cod

How to Choose the Best Cod for Cooking

Choosing the right cod is key to achieving great results in the kitchen. Here are some essential tips for selecting the best cod, depending on the recipe you want to prepare:

Type of Cod: Fresh, Salted, or Desalted

Fresh Cod: It has a milder flavor and is ideal for quick recipes like grilling or baking. Its texture is firm and easy to work with, but it’s not as flavorful as salted cod.
Salted Cod: This type is more flavorful and is used in traditional recipes like bacalao al pil-pil or bacalao a la vizcaína. It requires desalting before cooking.
Desalted Cod: A convenient option if you don’t want to go through the desalting process. It comes ready to cook and retains its intense flavor.

Color and Appearance

The cod should have a uniform ivory-white color, without dark spots or yellowish areas. If it’s salted, make sure the salt is clean and dry, without mold or moisture.

Firm Texture

When you press the cod lightly, the flesh should spring back to its original shape, indicating freshness. Avoid pieces that feel soft or frayed.

Smell of the Sea

Fresh cod should have a slight smell of the sea, not a strong fishy odor. If it smells too intense or unpleasant, it’s probably not in good condition.

Cod Parts Depending on the Recipe

Ingredients to Cook Cod

Here are the essential ingredients to prepare a delicious baked cod, juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, along with the function of each and the recommended quantities:

Cod loins (4 pieces of 180-200 g each): The main ingredient, providing a mild flavor and firm texture.
Garlic (3-4 cloves): Adds an aromatic touch and enhances the flavors of the cod.
Extra virgin olive oil (4 tablespoons): Adds flavor and helps brown the cod, contributing to its crispiness.
White wine (40-50 ml): Adds acidity and enhances the flavors of the fish during cooking.
White wine vinegar (20 ml): Provides a touch of acidity that balances the flavors of the dish.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Adds freshness and color to the final dish.
Sweet or spicy paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a smoky or spicy touch, depending on preference.
Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Provides a crispy texture on the surface of the cod.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds freshness and a light citrus note that enhances the flavor of the fish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Enhances the flavor of the cod.

How to Cook the Best Cod, Step by Step

Here is a detailed explanation of how to cook baked cod that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, using the ingredients mentioned earlier.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). It’s important to use a high temperature to achieve a crispy texture on the outside of the cod while keeping it juicy on the inside.

2. Prepare the Cod

If you’re using fresh cod, dry it well with paper towels to remove any moisture. If it’s desalted cod, make sure it’s completely dry after desalting.
Place the cod loins (4 pieces of 180-200 g each) on a baking tray lightly greased with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.

3. Season the Cod

Finely chop 3-4 garlic cloves and sprinkle them over the cod loins.
In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 40-50 ml of white wine, and 20 ml of white wine vinegar. This mixture will add acidity and enhance the flavors of the fish.
Pour the mixture over the loins, making sure to cover all of the fish.
Add a pinch of sweet or spicy paprika (1 teaspoon), depending on your preference, to give it a smoky or spicy touch.
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Prepare the Crispy Topping

In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crispy texture), along with the zest of one lemon (about 1 teaspoon), more finely chopped garlic if desired, and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley.
Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to this mixture so that it adheres well to the fish and turns golden when baked.

5. Coat the Cod

Coat each cod loin with the crispy topping you prepared, pressing gently so that it sticks well to the fish.

6. Bake the Cod

Place the tray in the preheated oven and cover it with aluminum foil for the first 10 minutes to retain moisture while cooking. This helps keep it juicy on the inside.
After the first 10 minutes, remove the aluminum foil to allow the crispy topping to brown perfectly.
Continue baking for about 15-20 minutes total (including the first 10 minutes). The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fish, but you’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
To achieve an even crispier texture, you can turn on the grill for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

7. Reduce the Wine Mixture

While the cod is baking, you can reduce any leftover wine and vinegar mixture in a small pan over medium-high heat until its volume is reduced by half (this will take about 5 minutes). This will concentrate its flavors and create a light sauce to accompany your fish.

8. Rest and Serve

Once you remove the cod from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving so that its juices settle.
Serve immediately with the reduced sauce or with a slice of lemon for squeezing over top.

This method guarantees perfectly cooked cod - juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside - ideal for enjoying alone or accompanied by a light sauce if preferred.

Tips to Prevent Cod from Falling Apart While Cooking

If you're cooking cod in the oven, it's important to follow some tips to prevent it from falling apart during cooking. Here are 8 key recommendations to keep the cod firm and juicy:

Dry it well before baking: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the cod before placing it in the oven. This helps it cook evenly and maintain its shape.
Don't overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly in the oven. Keep an eye on the cooking time (15-20 minutes) and remove it when the flakes begin to separate easily.
Use a well-greased baking tray: Grease the tray with olive oil to prevent the cod from sticking and breaking apart when you try to remove it from the oven.
Cook at a high temperature: Baking at a high temperature (around 220°C/425°F) allows the outside of the cod to brown quickly, which helps keep its structure firm on the inside.
Cover with a crispy layer: Using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs or flour can help create a protective layer that keeps the fish firm and crispy.
Cook skin-side down first: If your cod has skin, place it skin-side down on the baking tray. This helps keep the flesh firm while cooking.
Don't handle it too much: Avoid moving or flipping the cod too much during cooking, as it's a delicate fish and can easily break apart if handled excessively.
Add liquids in moderation: If you're using wine or vinegar during cooking, be sure not to add too much liquid, as an excess can cause the fish to lose firmness.

How to Keep Cod Juicy While Cooking: Essential Tips and Techniques

If you're cooking cod in the oven, it's essential to follow some techniques to ensure it stays juicy inside. Here are some key tips to achieve this:

Preheat the oven to the right temperature: Baking at a high temperature (around 220°C/425°F) seals the juices of the cod quickly, preventing it from drying out.
Use a marinade or liquid mixture: Before baking, coat the cod with a mixture of olive oil, white wine, and garlic. This not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture during cooking.
Don’t overcook it: Cod cooks quickly (15-20 minutes). Remove it from the oven as soon as the flakes begin to separate easily with a fork to avoid drying it out.
Lightly cover with aluminum foil: During the first 10 minutes of cooking, you can cover the cod with aluminum foil to trap steam and keep it juicy. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to let it brown.
Add liquids to the tray: Pour a little white wine or broth into the tray before baking. This creates steam in the oven and helps keep the fish moist.
Use a crispy layer: If you coat the cod with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and olive oil, you’ll not only achieve a crispy texture but also protect the fish’s flesh from losing moisture.
Let it rest before serving: Let the cod rest for a few minutes outside of the oven before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish, keeping it juicy.

How to Achieve a Crispy Crust on Cod Without Drying the Inside

Achieving a crispy crust on baked cod without drying it out is possible if you follow these key steps and techniques:

Preheat the oven to a high temperature: Make sure to preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). The high temperature is essential for quickly browning the surface and sealing in the juices inside.
Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for creating a crispy texture. Mix 1/2 cup of panko with a little olive oil to ensure it turns golden and crispy when baked.
Add a touch of fat: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil with the panko or breadcrumbs. This will help the coating brown evenly without drying out the fish.
Coat the loins well: Make sure to coat the cod loins with the crispy mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well. This will help protect the inside of the fish while it bakes.
Don’t overcook: Bake the cod for 15-20 minutes. Remove it from the oven when the crust is golden and crispy, and the cod flakes easily with a fork.
Use liquids in moderation: If you add white wine or broth to the tray, do so in small amounts to prevent the bottom of the fish from getting too wet and losing its crispiness.
Grill during the last few minutes: For extra crispiness, turn on the grill function of your oven during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will further brown the surface without affecting the juiciness inside.

How to Tell if Cod Fillet is Cooked

Knowing when cod is perfectly cooked is key to avoiding it being undercooked or overcooked. Here are some simple methods to check if your baked cod is done:

Opaque color: Cooked cod should be completely white and opaque. If you still see translucent areas, it needs more time in the oven.
Fork test: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and gently twist. If the cod flakes easily into layers, it’s done.
Kitchen thermometer: The most accurate way to know if cod is cooked is by using a kitchen thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F).
Knife test: Insert a butter knife into the thickest part of the fillet for a few seconds. If the knife feels warm when touched to your lips, the fish is ready; if it’s cold, it needs more time.
Firm texture: Touch the cod with a spoon or fork. If the flesh feels firm but not hard, it’s at its perfect cooking point.

Is it advisable to freeze leftover cooked cod? Practical tips

Yes, it is possible to freeze leftover cooked cod, but there are some important factors to consider to do it safely and maintain the quality of the fish. Here are some practical tips:

Cool the cod before freezing: Make sure the leftover cod is completely cool before placing it in the freezer. This prevents bacterial growth and helps preserve its texture.
Use an airtight container: Store the cooked cod in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Be sure to remove all the air to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze in small portions: Freeze the cod in individual portions. This makes it easier to thaw and avoids having to defrost more than you need.
Do not refreeze: If you have already thawed cooked cod, do not refreeze it. This can affect its flavor, texture, and increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
Maximum freezing time: Cooked cod can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. After this time, the quality of the fish may deteriorate.
Thaw properly: To thaw cooked cod, place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
Reheat carefully: When reheating cooked cod, do so over low heat or in the oven to avoid drying it out or losing its texture.

Ideas to Accompany a Delicious Cod

Cod is a versatile fish that can be paired with a wide variety of side dishes and sauces to enhance its flavor. Here are some ideas to accompany it:

Fresh salads: An avocado and carrot salad, Greek salad, or cucumber with olives bring freshness and contrast to the mild flavor of cod.
Rice: White or basmati rice is a classic side dish, but you can also opt for rice with corn or coconut milk for a tropical touch.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, and zucchini are perfect for accompanying cod and adding color and texture to the dish.
Steamed or roasted potatoes: Steamed potatoes with rosemary or roasted potatoes are simple yet delicious options that complement the firm texture of cod.
Classic sauces: Sauces like green sauce, almond sauce, or piquillo pepper sauce are perfect for pairing with cod and adding an extra layer of flavor.
Risotto: A creamy spinach or mushroom risotto is a more elaborate option that pairs very well with cod.
Vegetable chips: For a lighter and crunchier option, serve cod with carrot, zucchini, or sweet potato chips.
Citrus sauces: Sauces like orange or lemon sauce add a tangy touch that balances the flavor of the fish.

These side dishes and sauces not only complement your cod dish but also make it more complete and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How to cook frozen cod without defrosting?

A: You can cook frozen cod directly in the oven. Just adjust the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes at 220°C (425°F). Don’t forget to season it and cover it with a crispy layer for a great result.

Q: Is it necessary to remove the skin from the cod before cooking?

A: It is not necessary to remove the skin before cooking. In fact, leaving the skin on helps maintain the structure of the fish during cooking. If you prefer not to eat it, you can easily remove it after cooking.

Q: How to prevent cod from drying out when baking?

A: To prevent cod from drying out, make sure not to overcook it ( 15-20 minutes is sufficient) and cover it with aluminum foil during the first 10 minutes of cooking to retain its moisture.

Q: When should I add salt to the cod?

A: It is recommended to add salt before baking the cod, but in small amounts if you are using desalted or fresh cod. If you are using salted cod, make sure to desalinate it well beforehand and adjust the amount of salt as needed.