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Thai-Inspired Coconut Cod Recipe

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4.4 from 32 reviews

This Thai-Inspired Coconut Cod recipe features tender cod fillets simmered in a fragrant coconut milk sauce infused with Thai red curry paste, garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs. Paired with sliced bell peppers, shallots, and garnished with scallions, cilantro, and lime juice, this vibrant and easy skillet dish is perfect served over white rice or rice noodles for a delicious weeknight dinner ready in 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.25 lbs. cod fillets, cut into 4 portions
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 heaping cup)
  • 1/2 cup minced shallots
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger
  • 2 Tbsp. Thai red curry paste
  • 1 (13.5-oz.) can coconut milk
  • 1 tsp. fish sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped scallions (green onion)
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped or torn (substitute basil or Thai basil leaves if desired)
  • Cooked white rice or rice noodles for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season generously on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced red bell pepper and minced shallots. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, stir in minced garlic, fresh ginger, and Thai red curry paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, seasoning with a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
  3. Add Coconut Milk and Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Cook the Cod: Nestle the seasoned cod fillets into the coconut curry sauce in the skillet. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the cod gently simmer until cooked through and flaky, about 10 to 12 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for a bright, tangy finish. Garnish with finely chopped scallions and roughly torn or chopped cilantro. Serve the coconut cod over cooked white rice or rice noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of Thai red curry paste according to your spice preference.
  • Be gentle when simmering the cod to prevent the fish from breaking apart.
  • If fresh lime is unavailable, bottled lime juice can be used but fresh is preferred for brightness.
  • For a gluten-free meal, verify the fish sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
  • Use firm white fish fillets like cod to hold up well in the simmering coconut sauce.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai