Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce
Introduction
Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the light and flaky texture of cod with the bright and tangy flavors of citrus and butter. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal that will impress your family and friends.
History
This recipe is a modern twist on a classic seafood dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of citrus and butter has long been a popular flavor profile for fish dishes, and this recipe takes that tradition to the next level with the addition of fresh herbs and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1-1.5 lb (680 g) of white cod filets
- 3 oranges
- 1 lemon
- 0.5 cup of olive oil, divided
- Fresh basil
- 2 tbsp of unsalted butter
- 1 tsp of light brown sugar
- salt and black pepper
How to prepare
- Place the cod fillets in a shallow pan or baking dish.
- Zest 1 orange and 1 lemon, then sprinkle the zest over the fish.
- Squeeze the juice from the zested orange and lemon into a measuring cup, then add 0.25 cup of olive oil.
- Whisk the juice and oil together, then pour the mixture over the fish. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (121°C).
- In a large oven-safe sauté pan, heat the remaining 0.25 cup of olive oil until hot.
- Carefully shake off the excess marinade from the fish, saving it, and place the fish into the hot pan.
- Cook the fish over medium heat for about 4 minutes, then flip it and repeat on the other side.
- Season the fish with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer the fish to the oven to keep it warm while you make the sauce.
- In another smaller pan, melt the butter and add the sugar and the remaining marinade from the fish.
- Squeeze the juice from the remaining two oranges into the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking regularly, until the sauce has slightly thickened and reduced.
- Add about 0.25 cup of finely shredded basil leaves to the sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Remove the fish from the oven and pour the thickened sauce over it.
- Add more basil if desired and serve the fish over rice or quinoa.
Variations
- Try using different types of citrus, such as grapefruit or lime, for a unique flavor twist.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of complexity.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the fillets.
- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as cod can become dry and tough if cooked for too long.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of rice or quinoa, as well as a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. The citrus and butter sauce also complements a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Techniques
The key to this recipe is to cook the fish just until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be sure to monitor the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking the fish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have cod on hand, you can substitute another white fish such as haddock or halibut. You can also use a different type of citrus or herb to customize the flavor of the dish.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the fish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the dish with additional fresh herbs and citrus slices for a beautiful presentation. Serve the fish on a bed of rice or quinoa for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. A light and refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette would also complement the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the fish and sauce in a pan over low heat, being careful not to overcook the fish.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.
Carbohydrates
This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the olive oil and butter used to cook the fish and make the sauce. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Cod is a lean source of protein, making it a healthy choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 30 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cod is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. The citrus in the sauce also provides a boost of vitamin C. Each serving of this dish contains a variety of essential nutrients.
Alergens
This recipe contains fish and dairy (butter), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. Be sure to check for any other potential allergens in the ingredients used.
Summary
Overall, this dish is a well-rounded and nutritious option for a balanced meal. It provides a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal. With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce. It was a sunny summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Evelyn in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Evelyn was an amazing cook, and I always looked forward to trying out her delicious creations.
On this particular day, as we sat in her kitchen sipping on homemade lemonade, Evelyn pulled out an old, faded recipe card from her collection. She handed it to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and said, "I think you'll love this one, my dear. It's a family favorite."
I eagerly scanned the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of juicy cod fillets swimming in a tangy citrus and butter sauce. The combination of flavors seemed like a match made in heaven, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.
As Evelyn guided me through the process of preparing the dish, I listened intently, taking mental notes of her expert tips and tricks. She explained how the key to a perfectly cooked cod fillet was to ensure that it was fresh and not overcooked. She also stressed the importance of using high-quality butter and fresh citrus fruits to elevate the flavors to another level.
After marinating the cod in a zesty mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, I carefully coated each fillet in seasoned flour and placed them in a hot skillet. The sizzling sound of the fish hitting the pan filled the air, and I couldn't help but smile at the delicious aroma wafting through the kitchen.
As the cod cooked to a golden brown perfection, I prepared the citrus and butter sauce, melting the butter in a saucepan and squeezing in the juice of fresh oranges and lemons. The combination of the rich butter and tart citrus created a velvety sauce that coated the cod fillets in a luxurious glaze.
Finally, as Evelyn and I sat down to enjoy our meal, I took a bite of the Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce and closed my eyes in pure bliss. The tender fish melted in my mouth, while the tangy sauce danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more with each bite.
As I savored the flavors of the dish, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn from someone as talented as Evelyn. Her passion for cooking and sharing her recipes with others inspired me to continue exploring the world of culinary delights, one dish at a time.
And so, the recipe for Pan Fried Cod in Citrus and Butter Sauce became a cherished addition to my own collection, a reminder of the day I discovered the magic of combining fresh ingredients with love and care to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Thank you, Evelyn, for sharing your wisdom and culinary expertise with me. I will always treasure the memories we made in your charming seaside kitchen, and the delicious meals we enjoyed together.