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Easy Ginger Soy Cod Recipe

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3.9 from 78 reviews

This Easy Ginger Soy Cod recipe offers a deliciously flavorful and healthy seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey. Perfectly baked or pan-seared, this dish is enhanced with a luscious glaze and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, making it an ideal quick weeknight dinner or meal prep option.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cod fillets, 5–6 oz each
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1½ tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickened glaze)

Garnishes & Optional

  • Green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger until fully combined to form the marinade.
  2. Marinate the fish: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the fish, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the delicate fish.
  3. Cook the cod: You can either bake or pan-sear the cod.
    • To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated cod fillets on a parchment-lined baking dish. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
    • To pan-sear: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the cod fillets for 3 to 4 minutes per side, spooning some of the leftover marinade over the fish while cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
  4. Prepare the optional glaze: Pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and continue simmering for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glaze consistency.
  5. Serve: Spoon the thickened glaze over the cooked cod fillets. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with your choice of steamed rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute cod with other white fish such as halibut, tilapia, or snapper.
  • For a Whole30-compliant version, omit the honey or maple syrup and replace soy sauce with coconut aminos.
  • Add a spicy kick by mixing in sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
  • Do not marinate the cod for longer than 30 minutes as the fish is delicate and can break down.
  • Leftovers are perfect for making flavorful rice bowls or fish tacos the next day.