Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce

Whenever I find myself in need of a cozy meal that warms the soul, I turn to Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce. This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and the comforting aroma that fills the air as it simmers on the stove. The combination of tender, flaky cod bathed in a rich and tangy tomato sauce is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to the table, sparking laughter and shared stories over each delicious bite.

On particularly chilly evenings, when the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink, I love to whip up this simple recipe. It’s amazing how a few basic ingredients can transform into something so delightful. The rich flavor of the tomato sauce paired with the freshness of cod creates a symphony of tastes that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish is not just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the spirit.

As I prepare this meal, memories flood back of times spent in the kitchen with loved ones, passing down traditions and secrets of how to get that sauce just right. The joy of adding spices and watching the sauce bubble away is a reminder that cooking is an art that brings people together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce is bound to impress and create lasting memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce

The ingredients for Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce come together beautifully to create a dish that’s not only tasty but also comforting. Each element plays an essential role, from the succulent cod to the rich tomato sauce. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter – This adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce.
• 1 large sweet onion, finely chopped – The sweetness of the onion balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
• 6 oz can tomato paste – Provides a deep, robust flavor that forms the base of the sauce.
• 2 cups vegetable stock – This adds moisture and enhances the overall taste.
• Seasonings: 1 bay leaf, 6 black peppercorns, 6 allspice berries, 4 cloves – These herbs and spices create a warm depth of flavor.
• Juice of 1 small lemon, 2 Tbsp – A splash of lemon brightens up the dish perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp capers – Adds a tangy punch that elevates the sauce.
• 1 Tbsp honey – Balances out the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• 2 lbs cod fillets, cut into 3-inch pieces – The star of the dish; flaky and tender when cooked.
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour – Used for dredging the fish to create a crisp exterior.
• 1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing flavors.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• 1/4 cup light olive oil or avocado oil – For sautéing the fish to a golden perfection.
• Fresh parsley for garnish, optional – A pop of color and freshness on top.
• A cheesecloth, or tea infuser, or spice ball for holding spices – Helps to easily remove the spices from the sauce.

Cooking Instructions for Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce

Cooking Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create this sumptuous dish.

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Next, add 1 minced garlic clove to the pan along with 6 oz can tomato paste. Stir everything together and keep cooking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the tomato sauce to start browning slightly. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor.

3. Once the sauce has developed a rich color, pour in 2 cups vegetable stock along with the seasonings contained in your spice ball (that’s 1 bay leaf, 6 black peppercorns, 6 allspice berries, and 4 cloves). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

4. While the sauce is simmering, prepare the cod. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, combine 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.

5. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1/4 cup light olive oil or avocado oil. Once the oil is hot, quickly dredge both sides of the cod in the seasoned flour. Place the fillets into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the pan.

6. Fry the cod for about 3 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook the fish; it should flake easily with a fork. Add more oil as needed for frying.

7. Once the sauce has finished simmering, remove and discard the seasoning pouch. Stir in 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 Tbsp capers, and 1 Tbsp honey, cooking for another 2 minutes to bring everything together.

8. Add the sautéed cod to the sauce and gently heat until warmed through, turning the fish a couple of times to coat it in the sauce. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.

9. Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce warm or cold; it’s delicious either way!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to adapt Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately from the fish for quick meals later. Just thaw and reheat when needed.
• Pairing: Serve the dish over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Vegetable additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Best Served With

One of the best parts about Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce is the delicious array of sides that can complement it. Here are some excellent pairings to consider:

• Steamed rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy texture of rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• Fresh salad: A crisp salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the sauce.
• Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread, and you’ll have a comforting meal perfect for any gathering.
• Pasta: Toss some pasta in the sauce for a delightful twist on the traditional dish.
• Seasonal vegetables: Roasted vegetables can also be a great addition, adding color and nutrients to your plate.
• Perfect for lunch: This dish can double as an excellent lunch option, served cold on a bed of greens.
• Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, or even as a comforting meal during Ramadan.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the tender flakiness of fish with a robust and flavorful sauce. It’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a comforting meal that can bring everyone together. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week and is sure to impress your family and friends!

Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that will leave you craving more! With tender fish in a savory sauce, it's perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Make it tonight and experience the deliciousness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 1 large Sweet Onion finely chopped
• 1 clove Garlic minced
• 6 oz Tomato Paste can
• 2 cups Vegetable Stock
• 1 bay leaf Bay Leaf
• 6 black peppercorns Black Peppercorns
• 6 allspice berries Allspice Berries
• 4 cloves Cloves
• 1 small Lemon Juice of
• 2 Tbsp Capers
• 1 Tbsp Honey
• 2 lbs Cod Fillets cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2/3 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Salt I used sea salt
• 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/4 cup Light Olive Oil or avocado oil, to sauté fish
• optional Fresh Parsley for garnish
• 1 Cheesecloth for holding spices

Instructions

 

• In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Next, add 1 minced garlic clove to the pan along with 6 oz can tomato paste. Stir everything together and keep cooking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the tomato sauce to start browning slightly. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor.
• Once the sauce has developed a rich color, pour in 2 cups vegetable stock along with the seasonings contained in your spice ball (that’s 1 bay leaf, 6 black peppercorns, 6 allspice berries, and 4 cloves). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
• While the sauce is simmering, prepare the cod. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, combine 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
• Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1/4 cup light olive oil or avocado oil. Once the oil is hot, quickly dredge both sides of the cod in the seasoned flour. Place the fillets into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the pan.
• Fry the cod for about 3 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook the fish; it should flake easily with a fork. Add more oil as needed for frying.
• Once the sauce has finished simmering, remove and discard the seasoning pouch. Stir in 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 Tbsp capers, and 1 Tbsp honey, cooking for another 2 minutes to bring everything together.
• Add the sautéed cod to the sauce and gently heat until warmed through, turning the fish a couple of times to coat it in the sauce. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Cod Fish in Tomato Sauce warm or cold; it's delicious either way!

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately from the fish for quick meals later. Just thaw and reheat when needed.
• Pairing: Serve the dish over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Vegetable additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Keyword Cod Fish Recipe, Easy Cod Dinner, Healthy Cod Recipe, Tomato Sauce Dish