Description
Honey Garlic Glazed Cod with Broccoli and Rice
Ingredients
For the Cod:
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups steamed broccoli
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped
Directions
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic (and ginger if using).
Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook the cod: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through (cod flakes easily with a fork).
Glaze the cod: Lower the heat and pour the honey garlic mixture over the fish. Spoon the sauce over the fillets, letting it bubble slightly for 1-2 minutes until it thickens and coats the fish.
Assemble the plate: Serve the cod with steamed broccoli and white rice. Drizzle extra sauce over the fish and rice.
Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy this sweet and savory dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your cod fillets are fully thawed if frozen and patted very dry; this is key for a good sear. Whisk the glaze ingredients thoroughly in a bowl until fully emulsified. When searing the cod, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil, then the fish. Do not move the fillets for the first 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust. After flipping, cook until the fish is opaque. When adding the glaze, reduce the heat to low-medium to prevent the honey from burning. Spoon the sauce continuously for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a glossy, thickened coating.
Serving Suggestions
While white rice and broccoli are classic, this versatile cod pairs wonderfully with other sides. For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed spinach or bok choy. Quinoa or brown rice make excellent whole-grain alternatives. Add a fresh element with a side salad dressed with a light ginger-sesame vinaigrette. For extra color and crunch, top with additional sliced green onions, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a few chopped roasted peanuts.
How-to Summary
This quick 25-minute meal involves three core actions: making a simple honey-garlic-soy glaze, pan-searing seasoned cod fillets until flaky, and finishing the fish by glazing it in the skillet until the sauce thickens. Serve immediately with your chosen grains and vegetables for a balanced, flavorful dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cod fillets? Yes, but they must be completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight and patted extremely dry to avoid steaming and ensure proper searing.
How can I tell when the cod is perfectly cooked? The fish will turn opaque and flake easily when gently pressed with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.
What can I substitute for soy sauce? For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I bake the cod instead of pan-searing? Absolutely. Bake seasoned fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, then brush with the glaze and broil for 1-2 minutes until caramelized.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave at reduced power to prevent overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Cod: Adding wet fish to the pan causes steaming, preventing a golden sear.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each fillet has space for proper browning.
- Using High Heat for the Glaze: High heat will cause the honey to burn quickly. Always reduce the heat before adding the sauce.
- Overcooking the Cod: Cod cooks quickly and becomes tough and dry when overdone. Watch the time carefully.
- Forgetting to Taste the Glaze: Adjust the balance of sweet and savory to your preference before adding it to the pan.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Glazed Cod recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. In under 30 minutes, you achieve a restaurant-quality dish with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Its simplicity, health profile, and crowd-pleasing taste make it an ideal candidate for your regular weeknight rotation. Mastering the quick pan-searing and glazing technique opens the door to countless flavorful seafood dinners.