Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This pan-fried breaded cod recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to enjoy flaky, crispy cod that's bursting with flavor – a true testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy breading. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika; one with the beaten egg; and one with the breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Cod
Dredge each cod fillet in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the fillet thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle immediately), carefully place the breaded cod fillets in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cook the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the cooked cod from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish. This simple dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Crispy Cod:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy cod instead of crispy.
- Use high-quality oil: Olive oil provides a delicious flavor, but you can also use other high-heat oils like vegetable or canola oil.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Always check for doneness by inserting a fork; the cod should flake easily.
- Don't press down on the cod: Resist the urge to press down on the fillets while they're cooking; this will prevent them from crisping up properly.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicier kick.
- Herb it up: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano into the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Citrus zest: Add some lemon or lime zest to the breadcrumbs for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Garlic lover?: Add minced garlic to the flour mixture or breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This pan-fried breaded cod recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and the delicious results make it a favorite among homemade cooking enthusiasts. Enjoy!