The Cod Victoria is a dish that merges the flavors of the sea with the delightful aroma of fresh ingredients. It's an ideal choice for those who seek to impress their dinner guests with a meal that's not only delicious but also relatively simple to prepare. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a special dish for a family meal, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Cod Victoria
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets, each about 6 oz
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1⁄2 cup of white wine
- 1⁄4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps for a flawless execution of Cod Victoria:
- Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and make sure it’s at the right temperature before you start cooking.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Oil: In an oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Cod: When the oil is hot, place the cod fillets skin-side down. Sear for about 2 minutes until the skin is crispy. Then, carefully flip and sear for another minute.
- Remove the Cod: Take the cod fillets out of the skillet and set them aside. You’ll finish them in the oven.
- Make the Sauce:
- Add lemon slices to the same skillet, searing on both sides until they’re lightly browned.
- Add the garlic and shallot, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in white wine and broth, bring to a simmer, and let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Finish in Oven: Place the cod fillets back into the skillet with the sauce. Add butter on top of the fillets for extra richness. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
👨🍳 Note: Remember to adjust cooking times if your fillets are thicker or thinner than the recommended 6 oz.
Serving Suggestions
Here’s how you can elevate your Cod Victoria:
- Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Presentation: Plate each fillet with a generous spoonful of the sauce, ensuring every guest gets some tomatoes and a lemon slice. Sprinkle additional herbs for a fresh look.
After savoring the flavors of Cod Victoria, let’s recap the highlights. This dish not only brings a restaurant-quality experience to your dinner table but also provides an easy-to-follow recipe with ingredients that are easy to find. The simplicity of preparation combined with the rich, layered flavors from the sauce makes it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use other firm white fish like halibut or sea bass in place of cod. Just adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the fillets.
What if I don’t have an oven-proof skillet?
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If you don’t have an oven-proof skillet, you can transfer the seared cod and sauce to a baking dish to finish in the oven.
Can I prepare Cod Victoria ahead of time?
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You can prep the sauce and sear the cod in advance, but it’s best to finish the cooking just before serving to keep the fish moist and the texture optimal.
What can I do with leftover sauce?
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Any leftover sauce can be reheated and served with grilled chicken or over pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
