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This coconut curry baked cod is one of my favorite cozy dinners because it delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The fish bakes up perfectly tender in a warm, spiced coconut sauce that’s comforting yet vibrant. It is the kind of dish that impresses with very little fuss.
I first made this when I had a few cod fillets and a half-used can of coconut milk. That combination turned into a dinner everyone now requests when the weather cools down.
Ingredients
- Full fat coconut milk: adds richness and body to the sauce
- Olive oil: helps blend spices and adds moisture
- Curry powder: brings warmth and depth to the base
- Ground turmeric: offers golden color and subtle earthiness
- Ground ginger: adds brightness and gentle heat
- Chili powder: optional for those who enjoy a spicy kick
- Fresh garlic: gives aromatic depth and complexity
- Lime juice: brightens and balances the creamy sauce
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning and drawing flavor
- Honey: optional but rounds out the savory flavors with subtle sweetness
- Cod fillets: firm white fish that bakes well and takes on flavor
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: optional garnish for fresh finish
- Lime wedges: perfect final touch to lift the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius so it is hot when the fish is ready to bake
- Make the Coconut Curry Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl combine coconut milk olive oil curry powder turmeric ginger chili powder garlic lime juice salt pepper and honey. Whisk until the mixture is fully blended and smooth without streaks of oil or clumps of spice
- Arrange the Cod:
- Place cod fillets in a single layer in a medium baking dish without overlapping. Pat the surface of each fillet dry with a paper towel then season both sides lightly with salt and pepper
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared curry sauce evenly over the fillets making sure each piece is completely coated
- Bake the Cod:
- Place the dish in the center of the oven. Bake for twenty five minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the cod rest for two to three minutes before garnishing with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing
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You Must Know
My favorite part is the coconut milk curry sauce which transforms simple cod into something really special. I always serve it over jasmine rice which soaks up the flavor beautifully and reminds me of our family trip to Sri Lanka where I first had coconut fish curry.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To freeze allow the dish to cool then transfer to a freezer safe container and freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently in the oven with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use other white fish like halibut or tilapia if cod is not available. Swap olive oil for avocado oil. For more heat increase the chili powder or stir in a chopped fresh chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over jasmine or basmati rice. For a low carb option pair with sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice. Add naan or roti if you want a more filling spread.
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Cultural Context
This recipe draws inspiration from South Asian and Southeast Asian curry traditions where coconut milk and turmeric are common. It is a western home cook friendly version that still celebrates those core flavor elements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What kind of cod works best for this dish?
Fresh or high-quality frozen cod fillets are best. Look for firm, bright fillets without strong odors.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the chili powder or add fresh chopped chilies to boost heat according to taste.
- → Is marinating the cod necessary?
While not essential, letting the cod sit briefly in the sauce enhances its flavor and helps the spices absorb better.
- → What sides pair well with Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
It pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, naan bread, or a light salad. Roasted vegetables also work well.
- → How do I prevent the cod from drying out?
Cook only until the cod flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overbaking, and let it rest briefly after removing from the oven.
- → Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or stovetop with extra sauce.