If you’re like most people, you probably have a frozen cod fillet or two in your freezer. But when it comes to cooking frozen fish, there’s a lot of debate about the best way to do it.
Some people say that thawing the fish before cooking is essential, while others claim that cooking it from frozen is just as good (if not better). So what’s the truth?
Here’s what I recommend: If you have time to thaw the cod overnight in the refrigerator, go for it. This will help ensure that the fish cooks all the way evenly through.
If you’re short on time, however, don’t worry – cooking cod from frozen is perfectly fine. In fact, it might even be preferable, as it can help prevent the fish from drying out.
Here’s a guide on how to cook frozen cod, whether you decide to thaw it first or not.
How To Cook Frozen Cod – Thawed Or Not?
These are some popular methods to prepare frozen cod:
Thawed Cod
If you’ve thawed your cod overnight in the fridge, there are a few different ways you can cook it.
(a) Pan-Fry
One option is to simply pan-fry the cod in a little oil over medium heat until it’s cooked through (this will take about 5 minutes per side).
(b) Bake
Another option is to bake the cod in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then place the cod on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
(c) Poach
You can also poach the cod, which is a great method if you’re looking for something healthy and low-calorie. Simply add the cod to a large pot of simmering water and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
If you forgot to thaw your frozen cod and are short on time, we have got you covered.
Frozen Cod (Not Thawed)
If you’re cooking cod from frozen, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- First, it’s important to increase the cooking time since the fish will need longer to cook all the way through.
- A good rule of thumb is to add about 50% more time than you would if you were cooking thawed cod.
(a) Pan-Fry
So if you would normally pan-fry thawed cod for 5 minutes per side, cook frozen cod for 7-8 minutes per side.
(b) Bake
If you’re baking cod, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
(c) Poach
And if you’re poaching cod, add it to a large pot of simmering water and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Now that you know how to cook frozen cod, you can enjoy this delicious fish anytime – with or without thawing!
Read More: 10 Best Frozen Seafood To Buy From Your Local Supermarket!
Tips To Keep In Mind When Cooking Frozen Cod
Here are a few things to consider when cooking frozen cod to ensure that it comes out perfectly every time.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- When buying frozen cod, make sure to buy it from a reputable source. This will ensure that the fish is fresh and of good quality.
- Cook cod in its skin to help preserve its moisture. Cod is best cooked over medium heat so that it doesn’t dry out.
- Season cod with your favorite herbs and spices. Lemon, garlic, and dill all pair well with cod.
- Be careful not to overcook cod. It should be cooked through but still moist and flaky.
- Use a cooking thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
This will ensure that the fish is cooked all the way through and safe to eat. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to cook up the perfect batch of frozen cod every time. So go ahead and give it a try!
Best Ways To Serve Frozen Cod
Here are some of my favorite dishes to serve with frozen cod –
1. Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This dish is simple to make and full of flavor. The cod is first pan-fried until crispy, then simmered in a roasted red pepper sauce. Serve with a side of rice or potatoes for a complete meal.
2. Baked Cod with Parmesan Crumbs
This cod dish is baked until flaky and tender, then topped with crispy Parmesan crumbs. Serve with a side of vegetables or a salad for a light and healthy meal.
3. Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce
This cod dish is simmered in a flavorful tomato basil sauce. Serve over your favorite pasta for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.
4. Fried Cod with Tartar Sauce
This cod dish is perfect for those who love fried fish. The cod is coated in a light batter and fried until crispy, then served with tartar sauce on the side. Serve with french fries or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
5. Grilled Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
This cod dish is grilled to perfection, then topped with a lemon butter sauce. Serve with a side of vegetables or a salad for a light and healthy meal.
Read More: The Best Frozen Fish Brands to Try If you love Fish
FAQs – How To Cook Frozen Cod
Why is my frozen cod chewy?
If you’re finding your frozen cod to be chewy, it’s likely because it wasn’t cooked properly.
How long do you cook a piece of cod in the oven?
When cooking cod in the oven, aim for a flaky texture. You can achieve this by cooking the fish for 8-10 minutes in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do you know when cod is cooked?
To check if your cod is cooked through, use a fork to flake the fish. If it flakes easily, it’s ready to eat!
Can cod be undercooked?
Yes, undercooked cod will be opaque and may have a rubbery texture. If your frozen fish is undercooked, simply pop it back in the oven for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Make Your Delicious Frozen Cod Today!
Now that you know how to cook frozen cod, it’s time to get cooking! Cod is a versatile fish that can be cooked in many ways. I recommend pan-frying the fish with some olive oil until it’s golden brown and crispy. Serve your delicious cod dish with rice or vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal. What will you make with your fresh (from frozen) cod today?
I’m Rachel, and I love food. I especially love writing about food – reviewing different brands and items, and sharing my thoughts on new frozen foods that hit the market.
Food is a huge part of my life, and I love trying new things. That’s why I’m so excited to be working on my blog Pickfrozenfood.com. I will be always innovating and coming out with new review, and I know that I’ll be able to try lots of great food with them.
