This Black Cod recipe is my favourite! Say it one more time.
Black cod, also known as sablefish, is a fish that has established itself as a favourite fish, especially among foodies and chefs around the world. But despite the name, it’s important to always remember that Black cod is not the same as cod that you can easily buy at your favourite fishmonger. Compared to regular cod, black cod or Sablefish, has a richer, buttery flavour and a velvety texture.
While it is a fish that is associated with fine dining and Japanese food, it is actually a fish that can be easily made at home. And this black cod recipe is easy to make at home and is absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Fish
Black cod steak
Some sugar
Soy sauce
Butter
For Crudaiola Sauce
Plum tomatoes
Minced garlic
Olive oil
Parsley/Coriander
Some salt
lack pepper
For the Base
Ripe avocado
Olive oil
Some chives
Lime
Your favourite herbs – In this case, Parsley and/or coriander
PREPARATION AND COOKING METHOD
Crudaiola Sauce
1. To get started, choose ripe plum tomatoes or your favourite type of tomatoes. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Remember, the choice of tomatoes adds a layer of freshness and flavour to the dish, so feel free to choose ones that suit your taste preferences.
2. Next grab a bowl and mix the chopped tomatoes with some olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Olive oil adds a smooth richness while garlic brings in that savoury aroma. Parsley on the other hand contributes by adding that herby goodness and with salt and pepper to balance up everything.
3. Give it all a good stir. This ensures that the ingredients blend well together, creating a tasty mixture where every element plays its part.
4. After stirring, let the mixture sit for a bit. This break is essential as it allows the flavours to mingle and become more pronounced. Meanwhile, you can focus on preparing other parts of the dish, knowing your Crudaiola sauce is getting even more flavourful.
You can do this part ahead of time and just leave it covered at room temperature for a few hours to let the flavours blend even more.
Mashed Avocado Base
1. To create the mashed avocado base, start by mushing up ripe avocados.
2. Then add a bit of salt to your liking, but be cautious not to use too much.
3. When you’re done with that, mix the mashed avocados and salt well to ensure an even distribution of flavours.
4. Next, introduce olive oil and a splash of lime juice, giving the mixture another thorough mix.
5. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some chopped chives (and perhaps coriander for an extra flavour boost), and stir again.
6. Once you’ve achieved a well-blended and flavourful concoction, transfer this mixture onto your serving plate.
By the way, this vibrant mix will serve as the foundation for your cooked fish, providing a delicious and creamy backdrop to complement the main dish.
For The Black Cod
1. Begin the cooking process by heating up your pan on the stove. At the same time, prepare and heat up your oven for the final cooking step, ensuring it reaches the desired temperature. I typically set it between 180°C and 200°C.
2. Then, take your Black Cod steaks and gently place them in the heated pan. Allow them to roast for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re done. Always start the cooking with the skin side down for optimal flavour and texture. Once cooked, carefully set the steaks aside.
3. Next, in the same pan, add the sugar and soy sauce and stir until the sugar melts. This mixture will be used to enhance the flavours. Return the fish to the pan, allowing it to soak up this delightful combination of flavours.
4. Then, add a generous dollop of butter allowing it to melt. Once fully melted and heated, elevate the richness and amplify the deliciousness by basting the fish with this luscious, infused butter.
5. Now, move the fish to the preheated oven for an additional 3-4 minutes, once again still with the skin side down. This step ensures that the fish is fully cooked, achieving a harmonious blend of crispiness and tenderness.
6. Following this, take the fish out of the oven making sure not to burn yourself.
7. And finally, before serving, carefully inspect the fish, and remove any bones. You can use a small pair of pliers or fish tweezers to gently extract any bones you may come across.
9. Start plating by placing the fish on top of the previously prepared crushed avocado on the serving dish. Garnishing it with the Crudaiola sauce.
What to Pair with Black Cod
Thinking about what goes well with black cod? Miso cod pairs nicely with easy-to-find veggies. I personally like it with roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, cauliflower, and simple stir-fried greens like Black Cabbage or Cavolo Nero, plus broccoli and roasted asparagus.
For a heartier meal, you can also add some rice or a sesame cabbage salad – or any other easy choices that make your meal more satisfying.
Don’t forget to pair it with a lovely bottle of white wine if it’s a celebration and impress your party with this Black Cod recipe!