5 Delicious Cod Recipes with Coconut Milk

Coconut milk has a unique way of enriching flavors, adding a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that works wonderfully with the delicate taste of cod. For seafood lovers who appreciate the harmony of flavors, here are five delightful cod recipes that incorporate coconut milk, bringing a touch of tropical flair to your dinner table.

Coconut Milk Poached Cod

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 cans of coconut milk
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 1 inch ginger, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, combine coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and fish sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low. Nestle cod fillets into the mixture, making sure they are mostly submerged.
3. Poach gently for 8-10 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Remove cod from the liquid. Strain the poaching liquid, discarding solids, and reduce for a richer sauce if desired.
5. Serve the cod with a ladle of the reduced sauce, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.

💡 Note: Poaching the cod in coconut milk is a gentle way to cook the fish, preserving its tenderness and moisture.

Coconut Cod Curry

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until translucent.
2. Stir in curry powder and cook for a minute to release its flavors.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a sauce.
4. Pour in coconut milk, bring to a simmer, then add the cod fillets.
5. Simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until fish is cooked through.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Baked Cod with Coconut Milk and Herbs

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix together coconut milk, herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the coconut milk mixture over them.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
5. Spoon the coconut milk sauce over the fish before serving.

Coconut Milk Marinated Cod

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and chili flakes.
2. Place cod fillets in a dish and cover with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Remove fish from marinade (reserving marinade) and grill or pan-sear until cooked through.
4. While cooking, reduce the marinade in a saucepan until thickened for a glaze to serve over the fish.

Coconut Crusted Cod

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Dip each fillet in flour, then egg, and finally coat thoroughly with shredded coconut.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the crust is golden and the fish is cooked.
4. Serve with a wedge of lime or a light dipping sauce.

To finish, these five recipes for cod with coconut milk illustrate the culinary versatility of this fish, enhanced by the rich, creamy texture of coconut milk. Whether you prefer a quick poach or a more involved preparation like coconut-crusted cod, these dishes are sure to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table, combining the delicate, flaky texture of cod with the luscious, mildly sweet coconut flavor for an unforgettable seafood experience.

Can I use frozen cod for these recipes?

+

Yes, frozen cod works well for these recipes. Ensure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking to maintain the texture.

What can I substitute for coconut milk if I’m allergic?

+

If you are allergic to coconut milk, consider using heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, keeping in mind they will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Is cod a sustainable fish to eat?

+

Cod can be sustainable if sourced from managed fisheries. Look for certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) for sustainably caught wild cod, or ASC for farmed cod.

How do I know when the cod is cooked through?

+

Cod is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.

What sides go well with these cod dishes?

+

These dishes pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, or a light salad with citrus dressing to complement the tropical flavors.