The Butcher Shop, Inc.

Locally Sourced Quality Food

Lemon Butter True Cod (Pacific Cod)

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When it comes to seafood, few choices can match the exquisite taste and versatility of True Cod (also known as Pacific Cod.) Renowned for its mild flavor, delicate texture, and impressive nutritional content, this delectable fish has been winning the hearts of food enthusiasts and chefs alike. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or someone looking to explore new culinary delights, True Cod is an excellent choice that promises a truly delightful dining experience.

Where to Find True Cod: True Cod, scientifically known as Gadus macrocephalus, is native to the icy-cold waters of the North Pacific Ocean. It thrives in the coastal areas off the coasts of Alaska, British Columbia, and the Pacific Northwest. True Cod is often caught in deep-sea fishing expeditions, making it a prized catch for commercial and recreational fishermen.

Nutritional Content: Not only does True Cod tantalize your taste buds, but it also boasts an impressive nutritional profile. This lean white fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals and fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, True Cod is rich in essential nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits, aiding brain function and reducing inflammation.

Flavor Profile: True Cod’s flavor is often described as mild, sweet, and slightly nutty, setting it apart from stronger-tasting fish like salmon or tuna. This mildness makes it an ideal canvas for various cooking methods and flavor pairings, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of cuisines and recipes. Whether you prefer simple seasoning or bold marinades, True Cod readily embraces the flavors you choose to introduce.

Cooking True Cod: Cooking True Cod is a delight, and its versatility allows for a myriad of culinary possibilities. Here are some popular cooking methods to bring out the best in this flavorful fish:

  1. Pan-Seared: Heat a pan with some olive oil or butter, season the fillets with salt and pepper, and sear them for a few minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The result is a crispy and succulent dish that pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables or a zesty sauce.
  2. Baked: Preheat the oven, place seasoned True Cod fillets on a baking sheet, and cook until the fish is flaky and tender. Baking preserves the delicate flavor and moisture, making it an excellent option for a healthy and fuss-free meal.
  3. Grilled: Fire up the grill for a delightful smoky flavor. Marinate the fish in your favorite herbs and spices, then grill it to perfection. The grill marks and enhanced taste will leave your guests craving for more.
  4. Fish Tacos: True Cod is a fantastic choice for making delicious fish tacos. Lightly bread the fillets and fry them until crispy. Assemble the tacos with your favorite toppings, such as fresh salsa, shredded cabbage, and a zesty lime crema, for a delightful and flavorful meal.

Five Tips for Preparing True Cod

  1. Thawing the Frozen Cod: When dealing with frozen cod, it’s crucial to ensure proper thawing to preserve its texture and taste. For best results, plan ahead and allow the cod to thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator. Avoid the temptation of using the microwave for defrosting, as it may lead to an undesirable texture and even partial cooking.
  2. Managing Moisture Content: If you find your cod to be overly wet, don’t fret. Simply dab it gently with paper towels to achieve the ideal moisture level. You want the fish to be barely damp so that any flour or coating sticks perfectly, yet dry enough to achieve a beautiful golden brown when cooked.
  3. Avoid Overcooking: To savor the tender and delightful taste of cod, it’s essential not to overcook it. Overcooking can result in tough and rubbery fish, a disappointment for any seafood enthusiast. Keep a close eye on the cooking time and remove the cod from heat just as it reaches perfection.
  4. Testing for Doneness: Gauging the doneness of cod is an art worth mastering. A simple trick is to use a fork – when the cod flakes easily and loses its translucent, raw appearance, you know it’s cooked to perfection. This ensures a succulent and flavorsome dish that will impress your dining companions.
  5. Skin-On or Skinless Cooking: The choice of cooking cod with or without its skin is entirely up to personal preference. If you lean towards removing the skin, go ahead. However, if you wish to keep the skin on for added flavor and texture, that’s equally delightful. When cooking with the skin on, start by placing the fish skin-side down first, ensuring a perfectly crisp and delicious skin.

How to make Lemon Butter True Cod

Ingredients:

  • 4 TBS true cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 5 Tbsp European-style butter, cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

  1. Start by whisking together a delightful medley of flour, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Generously sprinkle and distribute the flour mixture over both sides of the cod fillets, making sure to use every last bit of this aromatic blend.
  3. In a non-stick skillet set over medium-high heat, melt a tantalizing duo of 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Once the skillet is ready, carefully place the seasoned cod fillets, allowing them to sear to a luscious golden brown on each side. The fish should be cooked through, and you can expect it to easily flake apart when tested with a fork. This culinary artistry typically takes around 3 – 4 minutes per side. Once done, gracefully transfer the cod to the awaiting serving plates.
  5. Embrace a touch of finesse as you reduce the burner temperature to medium-low, preparing for the next layer of flavor. Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet, infusing the air with its savory aroma.
  6. Time to elevate the taste! Introduce the garlic to the melted butter, allowing it to sauté ever so briefly until its fragrance captivates your senses and it takes on a gentle, golden hue. This takes a mere 15 seconds, so watch attentively.
  7. Swiftly remove the skillet from the heat, prepared to unleash the magic of your sauce. Carefully pour and gracefully stir in a harmonious union of chicken broth and lemon juice. As you do so, be cautious of the steam dancing forth from this delightful mixture.
  8. Now, the pièce de résistance! Pour the sensational sauce over the cod fillets, creating a cascading symphony of flavors that will elevate your dish to new heights.
  9. As a final touch of freshness, adorn the dish with a sprinkling of vibrant parsley, and serve this culinary masterpiece warm, delighting in the harmonious blend of taste and texture.

For the freshest fish, seafood, and meats, choose The Butcher Shop.

With this uniquely worded recipe, you are well on your way to creating a cod dish that tantalizes the taste buds and impresses even the most discerning palates. We receive seafood shipments on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from small fishing outfits in nearby coastal towns. Some of our seafood selection is seasonal, so give us a call to see what we have in stock today, or call us at 541-830-3369 to place an order for future pickup. Enjoy the delightful journey of culinary excellence!