If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, look no further than pan-fried cod fish with garlic butter. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

In 2024, cooking at home has become more than just a necessity—it’s a trend that continues to grow as more people seek healthier, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal options. Recipes like this pan-fried cod fish with garlic butterallow you to enjoy restaurant-quality food from the comfort of your own kitchen. Moreover, with sustainability becoming a key focus, cod is a popular fish choice due to its wide availability and mild flavor.

In this article, we’ll dive into every detail of this recipe and share helpful tips to make sure your cod fish is cooked to perfection every time. Plus, we’ll explore some common questions and variations you can try at home.

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Section 1: Ingredients and Preparation – What You Need to Get Started

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s start by covering the ingredients you’ll need for this pan-fried cod fish with garlic butter. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—just a few ingredients, and you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time.

Key Ingredients:

• Cod fillets: Fresh or frozen cod works well for this recipe. Fresh cod will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen cod can also be delicious if properly thawed.
• Butter: Butter is the star of this dish, providing a rich, creamy base for the garlic sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic kick to the butter, making the sauce irresistible.
• Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that complements the buttery cod perfectly.
• Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.

Preparation Tips:

• Thawing the cod: If using frozen cod, be sure to thaw it properly by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. Pat it dry before cooking to get a nice crispy sear.
• Using butter: Butter is key in this recipe, but don’t be afraid to combine it with olive oil for a more balanced flavour and to prevent the butter from burning too quickly.

By keeping things simple, you allow the natural flavours of the pan-fried cod fish with garlic butter to shine through, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying.

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Section 2: Step-by-Step Instructions – Cooking the Perfect Pan-Fried Cod

Now that you have your ingredients let’s cook them! The secret to making this dish shine is in achieving a crispy exterior on the cod while keeping the inside tender and flaky. Follow these simple steps to get restaurant-quality results at home.

Step 1: Season the Cod

Before frying, pat your cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. You want the butter to melt slowly without browning too much. Add a little olive oil to the pan to raise the smoke point and prevent the butter from burning.

Step 3: Cook the Cod

Place the seasoned cod fillets in the pan, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The key is to cook the fish until it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir.

Step 5: Serve

Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the cod fillets. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Section 3: Why Pan-Fried Cod Fish with Garlic Butter is a Must-Try in 2024

As home cooking continues to trend in 2024, this recipe is more relevant than ever. With a focus on healthy, fresh ingredients, pan-fried cod fish with garlic butter provides an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids while remaining light and low in calories.

Health Benefits of Cod Fish:

• Low in fat, high in protein: Cod is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fats are great for heart health and inflammation.
• Versatility: Cod’s mild flavor allows it to pair well with many sauces and side dishes, making it a staple in various cuisines.

Aside from its health benefits, this dish is incredibly versatile. If garlic butter isn’t your favorite, you can try alternative sauces like lemon-caper butter or tomato basil salsa for a fresh twist. You can also serve the cod with various sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Section 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Cod

Even though this dish is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Let’s go over them to ensure you get the perfect pan-fried cod every time.

Overcooking the Cod

Cod is a delicate fish, and overcooking can make it tough and dry. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking time. A general rule is to cook fish for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet.

Not Patting the Fish Dry

If your cod fillets are too wet, they won’t sear properly in the pan. This can leave the fish soggy instead of crispy. Always pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking.

Using the Wrong Pan

A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan works best for this dish. It helps prevent the fish from sticking and allows for even browning.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Home Cooking with Pan-Fried Cod Fish

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, Olivia’s pan-fried cod fish with garlic butter recipe is one that belongs in your regular rotation. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. Plus, with cod’s mild taste and buttery texture, it’s sure to please even picky eaters.

As we move further into 2024, cooking at home remains a key trend, and this recipe perfectly fits the bill for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious, and impressive dish. So next time you’re in the mood for seafood, give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the flavours to make it your own!

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Looking for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes? Explore Olivia’s recipe collection for more inspiration, from seafood to desserts. Happy cooking!