Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag or lengthy prep time? Then look no further! This smoked black cod recipe is your ticket to a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dinner. Forget takeout; this healthy and delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this incredible easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) black cod fillets, skin on
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons wood chips (such as hickory or applewood – soak in water for at least 30 minutes before using)
Instructions:
Get Started:
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Prepare your smoker or grill for indirect heat at approximately 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, create a two-zone fire with coals on one side and a drip pan on the other.
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Soak your wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. This ensures they smolder properly and don't burn up too quickly.
Marinate the Cod:
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In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper.
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Place the black cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring both sides are coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Smoking the Cod:
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Add the soaked wood chips to your smoker or grill according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Place the marinated black cod fillets on the grill grate over the indirect heat source (away from the direct flames).
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Smoke the cod for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach around 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your smoky black cod immediately. It's delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Ensure there's enough space between the fillets for even smoking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the fish reaches the safe internal temperature. Overcooked black cod will be dry.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and the temperature of your smoker.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients to your marinade, such as chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed Black Cod: Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the marinade for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spicy Black Cod: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sriracha to the marinade for a fiery flavor.
- Citrus Black Cod: Add the zest and juice of one lime or lemon to the marinade for a refreshing taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
This smoked black cod recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Its ease of preparation and impressive flavor profile make it a winner for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this delicious dish, and happy cooking!