Name: Pan Fried Cod Fish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (around 6 oz each); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you’re craving something light yet packed with flavor, then this Pan Fried Cod Fish recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy, golden-brown fish fillets with a flaky, tender interior that melts in your mouth with every bite. This dish is the perfect combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors—plus, it comes together in no time! Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.

Why You’ll Love Pan Fried Cod Fish

This recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Here’s why:

Versatile: It’s great as a standalone dish or paired with various sides like roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Budget-Friendly: Cod is a great option for an affordable, healthy protein that won’t break the bank. You get all the flavor without the hefty price tag of other seafood options.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you still want something delicious and satisfying.

Customizable: Whether you like a little heat, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of herbs, you can easily adjust the flavor to suit your tastes.

Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters will love this crispy and delicate cod, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Pan Fried Cod Fish:

For the Fish:

Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen, cod is mild-flavored and delicate. It’s the perfect fish for pan frying, creating a crispy crust while staying tender inside.
Flour: Lightly dusting the fillets in flour gives them a beautiful, crispy coating.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavor of the fish.
Olive Oil: For frying, adds a touch of richness and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the frying process, giving the fish a nice golden finish.

For Garnish:

Lemon: A fresh squeeze of lemon juice brings a lovely, bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the fish.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme can be used for an added burst of color and freshness.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious pan-fried cod!

Prepare the Fish: Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to get that crispy exterior! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Coat the Fish: Lightly dredge each cod fillet in flour. Shake off any excess flour to ensure a thin, even coating. You’re aiming for a light dusting, not a heavy batter.
Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add a tablespoon of butter. The butter will help with flavor and give the fish that golden, crispy edge.
Fry the Cod: Place the coated fillets in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—cook the fillets in batches if needed.
Finish and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the fish from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with fresh herbs, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy, golden cod immediately, either as is or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (depending on the type of oil used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Pan Fried Cod Fish

This Pan Fried Cod Fish pairs wonderfully with various sides, so here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Serve it with a side of crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Pair it with a simple salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a fresh, healthy option.
For a bit of richness, try it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

If you prefer a thicker crust, you can dip the fillets in a beaten egg before dredging them in flour.
For a slightly different flavor, feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the flour before coating the fish.
If you want a more golden-brown color, cook the fish on medium heat rather than high to allow the coating to crisp evenly without burning.
Use a non-stick skillet if you have one, as it will make flipping the fish a little easier.

FAQ’s

Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! You can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut for a similar result.
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, frozen cod works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free flour like rice flour or a gluten-free breading for the coating.
What should I do if my fish is sticking to the pan?
Ensure that your pan is hot enough before adding the fish. If the fish is sticking, it might need a little more oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Can I add seasonings to the flour?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the flour for an extra flavor boost.
Can I bake the cod instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily. However, the texture won’t be as crispy as the pan-fried version.
How do I know when the cod is cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but butter gives a richer flavor and helps create a crispier crust.
Can I serve this with a sauce?
Yes! A simple tartar sauce or garlic butter sauce would pair wonderfully with this dish.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
This dish is best served immediately after cooking to maintain its crispy texture, but you can prepare the fish fillets and flour coating ahead of time and cook them when ready.

Conclusion

Pan Fried Cod Fish is a delicious, simple dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, it’s sure to impress. With a golden, crispy crust and tender fish inside, this meal is everything you need when craving something satisfying yet light. Try it today, and you’ll see why it’s bound to be a hit!