This Easy Ginger Soy Cod is a true winner! With tender cod fillets soaked in a zesty ginger-soy marinade, it’s packed with flavor and super healthy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Baking it is a breeze—less mess in the kitchen! I love to serve it with rice and veggies for a complete meal. You’ll want to make this again and again—trust me, it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is a mild, flaky fish, which makes it a great choice for this recipe. If you can’t find cod, you can substitute with other white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia.
Soy Sauce: Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content. If you are gluten-free, tamari is a good alternative. For a sweeter touch, consider using coconut aminos.
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a vibrant kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger on hand, ground ginger can work in a pinch, but use less—about 1 teaspoon is enough.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners balance the flavors. If needed, you can use agave syrup or any other sweetener of your choice, or leave it out for a less sweet taste.
Rice Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both provide acidity to brighten the dish. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also be swapped, but lemon juice is a great option for a fresh twist!
How Do You Keep Cod Moist While Baking?
Keeping cod moist is key to a tasty dish! Firstly, marinate the fish properly to ensure it absorbs those delicious flavors. Here are some tips:
- Marinate for at least 20-30 minutes, up to an hour, to give it time to soak up the flavors.
- Basting the fillets with the marinade while they bake is a good practice. It keeps them from drying out.
- If you’re unsure, you can cover the baking sheet lightly with foil for the first half of the cooking time to retain moisture.
Lastly, watch the cooking time. Over-baking can lead to dry fish. Cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, usually within 12-15 minutes. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful cod!
Easy Ginger Soy Cod Recipe – Healthy & Flavorful
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 20-30 minutes to marinate the cod, and about 15 minutes to bake it. In total, you can have this delicious dish ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar (or lemon juice), sesame oil, and chili flakes (if you like a bit of heat) in a small bowl. Mix until well combined.
2. Marinate the Cod:
Place your cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Carefully pour the marinade over the fillets, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes. If you can let them marinate for up to an hour, that’s even better for flavor!
3. Preheat and Prepare:
While your cod is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
4. Bake the Cod:
Take the cod out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the fillets on your prepared baking sheet. Bake the cod in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as thicker fillets may take a bit longer.
5. Finish and Serve:
While the cod is baking, you can brush the fillets with a bit of the extra marinade a couple of times to keep them moist and flavorful. Once baked, take the cod out of the oven and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs if you like.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious ginger soy cod hot alongside steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this simple, flavorful, and healthy meal!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Another Fish for Cod?
Absolutely! If you can’t find cod, you can use other mild white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish.
How Long Should I Marinate the Cod?
For the best flavor, marinate the cod for at least 20-30 minutes, but you can let it soak for up to 1 hour. Avoid marinating for too long (over 2 hours), as the fish can become too salty and mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the marinade and marinate the fish ahead of time. Marinate the cod up to 1 hour before you plan to bake it. Alternatively, you can marinate it the night before, but be sure to store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What Should I Serve with Ginger Soy Cod?
This cod pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of sautéed vegetables. You could also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Consider garnishing with extra herbs and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation!
