Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to prepare rock cod? You’re in luck! This versatile fish is perfect for a variety of cooking methods and flavor profiles. From tender and flaky to crispy and golden, rock cod can be prepared in countless ways. In this article, we’ll explore 19 delicious rock cod recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world.
From classic dishes like pan-seared rock cod with lemon butter sauce to more adventurous options like rock cod poke bowl with avocado and sesame, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these rock cod recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of rock cod cuisine and share our favorite recipes that showcase the fish’s tender flesh and versatility in the kitchen. From Asian-inspired dishes to Latin American flavors and classic comfort food, there’s something for everyone in this collection of rock cod recipes.
Pan-Seared Rock Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
A delicate fish dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this pan-seared rock cod is served with a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the fish with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet and swirl until melted.
4. Sear the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, garlic, and white wine (if using).
7. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve the fish with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Rock Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of rock cod, mango, and lime in this refreshing taco recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place rock cod fillets in the marinade; let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill rock cod for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled rock cod, Mango Salsa, and any desired toppings (e.g., cilantro, avocado).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Rock Cod with Garlic and Herbs
Savor the rich flavor of rock cod paired with aromatic garlic and herbs in this easy-to-make baked dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place rock cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the garlic mixture evenly over each fish fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rock Cod Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Rock Cod Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro: A refreshing and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rock cod, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces, lime juice, and salt. Stir gently to coat.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro. If desired, add the chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick of heat.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Crispy Rock Cod Fish and Chips
Experience the classic British comfort food with this simple recipe that yields crispy, golden-brown fish and chips.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Cooking salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the fish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Cook the potato chips in the same oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve the fish with hot chips and a sprinkle of cooking salt.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
Rock Cod Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes
Rock Cod Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe
This hearty and comforting chowder is a perfect blend of tender rock cod, crispy bacon, and fluffy potatoes, all simmered together in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rock cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock (or water)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rock cod pieces, fish stock (or water), and heavy cream or half-and-half to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Add the diced potatoes and cooked bacon back into the pot.
8. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Rock Cod with Ginger and Scallions
This recipe highlights the delicate flavor of rock cod, elevated by the warm aroma of ginger and the pungency of scallions. A simple yet impressive dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rock cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the fish fillets.
3. Add the sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
4. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and water. Pour the mixture over the fish during the last minute of steaming.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Rock Cod Poke Bowl with Avocado and Sesame
Experience the freshness of Hawaii’s poke bowls in this simple recipe that combines tender rock cod, creamy avocado, and nutty sesame. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade rock cod, cut into small pieces
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or brown rice for serving
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine rock cod, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Gently massage the mixture into the fish.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, top each bowl with diced avocado.
4. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including marinating time)
Rock Cod en Papillote with Vegetables
A flavorful and moist rock cod dish cooked in parchment paper with an assortment of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine onion, garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a rock cod fillet on each parchment paper square (about 12″ x 12″).
5. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the fish, leaving a 1-inch border around each fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Fold the parchment paper to create a tight seal and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Rock Cod Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the tender flake of rock cod with the warmth of spices, all wrapped up in a rich coconut milk sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rock cod fillets
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rock cod fillets; cook for 3-4 minutes or until flaky.
5. Stir in coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rock Cod Fish Cakes with Dill Aioli
Experience the tender flake of rock cod wrapped in a crispy fish cake, paired with a tangy and refreshing dill aioli.
Ingredients:
For the Rock Cod Fish Cakes:
– 1 pound rock cod fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dill Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flaked rock cod, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. For the Dill Aioli, mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rock Cod Stuffed with Crab and Breadcrumbs
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of rock cod with the richness of crab meat and crunchy breadcrumbs, making for a satisfying seafood dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix crab meat with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each rock cod fillet with the crab mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Dredge stuffed fish in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rock Cod with Tomato and Olive Tapenade
A flavorful and refreshing seafood dish that combines the tender taste of rock cod with the tangy flavors of tomato and olive tapenade.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive tapenade
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the rock cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the fish in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the fish is cooking, heat the cherry tomatoes in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
7. Serve the rock cod with the roasted cherry tomatoes and a spoonful of olive tapenade.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rock Cod Kebabs with Lemon and Rosemary
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing twist on traditional kebabs. Succulent rock cod pairs perfectly with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rock cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add rock cod pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Thread marinated rock cod onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place kebabs on the grill or grill pan, cooking for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Rock Cod Risotto with Peas and Parmesan
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flaky flavors of rock cod with creamy Arborio rice, sweet peas, and salty parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rock cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the rock cod pieces and cook until opaque and flaky, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed fish stock to the rice, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and cook until thawed.
7. Serve the risotto with the cooked rock cod on top, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rock Cod Piccata with Capers and White Wine
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines flaky rock cod with a bright and tangy sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. With its delicate flavors and ease of preparation, Rock Cod Piccata is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add white wine, capers, and parsley; simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Place cod fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if applicable). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Rock Cod Sandwich with Tartar Sauce
Experience the fresh flavor of rock cod with our simple and delicious sandwich recipe, paired with a tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (about 1/2 pound each)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Mayonnaise or spread
– Tartar sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the rock cod fillets with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet or grill pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the skillet or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked rock cod fillet on each bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise or spread, and a dollop of tartar sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rock Cod Paella with Saffron and Chorizo
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty paella dish featuring tender rock cod, smoky chorizo, and aromatic saffron. This classic Spanish recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rock cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chorizo; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in rock cod pieces; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rock Cod with Black Bean Sauce and Bok Choy
A flavorful and nutritious seafood dish that combines the tender flaky rock cod with a rich black bean sauce and crunchy bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 4 rock cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, season rock cod fillets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Toss bok choy with a pinch of salt and cook in the same skillet as the black bean sauce for an additional minute.
6. Serve rock cod atop bok choy, spooning black bean sauce over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of rock cod with these 19 delicious recipes, perfect for seafood lovers. From classic preparations like pan-seared rock cod with lemon butter sauce and baked rock cod with garlic and herbs, to innovative dishes like grilled rock cod tacos with mango salsa and spicy rock cod curry with coconut milk. You’ll also find healthier options like steamed rock cod with ginger and scallions and rock cod poke bowl with avocado and sesame. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to please.
