Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, this Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is the perfect option. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you want something light, healthy, and full of flavor. The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and soy sauce gives the fish a savory-sweet glaze that’s irresistible. My family loves this dish, and it’s always a hit when I serve it alongside some steamed vegetables and rice. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, to mix with cornstarch)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make the ginger soy glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced ginger, garlic, and lime juice. If you want a thicker glaze, dissolve the cornstarch in the water and add it to the mixture.
3. Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Bake the cod: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Pour the ginger soy glaze over the top, making sure to coat each fillet evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the excess glaze from the baking dish into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
6. Serve: Once the cod is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 240
• Total fat: 8g
• Saturated fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• With steamed rice: Serve the cod alongside a bowl of fluffy jasmine or brown rice to soak up the savory glaze.
• With sautéed greens: Pair it with garlicky spinach or bok choy for a healthy side.
• With noodles: Serve the cod over a bed of stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal.
• In lettuce wraps: Flake the cod into pieces and serve in crisp lettuce wraps with a drizzle of extra sauce.
• With roasted veggies: Roast some broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooked cod becomes dry, so aim for just-done flaky fish.
2. Marinate for more flavor: If you have the time, marinate the cod in the ginger soy glaze for 15-30 minutes before baking for extra flavor.
3. Use fresh ginger: Fresh ginger really brings out the best in this recipe. Pre-minced ginger from a jar won’t have the same flavor punch.
4. Check for doneness: The cod is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Adjust sweetness: If you like a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon of honey.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Ginger Soy Cod: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Miso Glazed Cod: Replace the soy sauce with white miso paste for a richer, umami flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Swap the lime juice with orange or lemon juice for a zesty citrus glaze.
• Teriyaki Style: Add a tablespoon of mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine) to the glaze for a classic teriyaki flavor.
• Grilled Cod: Instead of baking, grill the cod over medium heat, basting with the glaze as it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed edamame for a light, protein-packed meal.
• Pair with a crunchy Asian-style slaw for texture contrast.
• Serve over a bed of quinoa for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• Enjoy alongside a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the bright, savory flavors.
• For a fresh garnish, top with cilantro or basil leaves.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked cod for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the cod in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-12 minutes. Avoid using a microwave to prevent the fish from becoming rubbery.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet or dish: Use a rimmed baking sheet or an oven-safe dish to hold the cod fillets and glaze.
• Whisk: A small whisk helps to thoroughly combine the glaze ingredients.
• Fish spatula: Use a flexible fish spatula to handle the delicate cod fillets without breaking them apart.
• Zester or grater: If you want extra citrus flavor, a zester is great for adding a bit of lime or lemon zest.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using to ensure it cooks evenly and the glaze adheres.

2. What other types of fish can I use?
If you don’t have cod, you can use other mild white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the fillets.

3. Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, you can pan-sear the cod in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then pour the glaze over it and simmer for a few minutes until the fish is cooked through.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the glaze and cook it on the stovetop for a couple of minutes until thickened.

5. What can I use instead of honey?
If you prefer, you can use maple syrup or brown sugar instead of honey for a similar sweet element.

Print

Closing Note

This Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod recipe is a delicious, quick-to-make dish that brings bold flavors to the table without much effort. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal prep. The tangy glaze pairs beautifully with the flaky cod, making every bite a delightful experience. Enjoy!