Christmas Coconut Curry Baked Cod: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The coconut curry sauce is perfectly spiced with red curry paste, fresh ginger, and garlic, making it incredibly aromatic and flavorful. Paired with flaky cod and fresh vegetables like bell peppers and sugar snap peas, this dish is both light and satisfying. Plus, the whole thing bakes in one dish for minimal cleanup, making it as convenient as it is delicious.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and yellow)
1 cup sugar snap peas
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Christmas Coconut Curry Baked Cod: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil to prevent the fish from sticking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced bell peppers and sugar snap peas, cooking until just tender, about 4-5 minutes. These veggies will add a crisp texture and a burst of color to the dish.

Step 5: Make Curry Sauce

Add the can of coconut milk and red curry paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Add lime juice and fish sauce (if using) to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Step 7: Arrange Cod

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season the fillets with salt and pepper, then pour the curry sauce over the fish, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. The fish should be tender and moist, while the curry sauce should thicken slightly.

Step 9: Garnish

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish the cod with fresh cilantro. Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty touch.

Step 10: Serve

Serve the coconut curry baked cod over cooked rice or quinoa, spooning the extra curry sauce over the top. Enjoy the incredible flavors!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Tips for the Best Coconut Curry Baked Cod

Use fresh cod: For the best flavor and texture, fresh cod works best, but frozen cod can be used if necessary. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Adjust the spice level: If you like a spicier curry, feel free to add more red curry paste or even some chopped fresh chili.
Add more vegetables: If you want to bulk up the dish, feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! You can substitute cod with other white fish like tilapia, haddock, or halibut. Just make sure the fillets are similar in size and thickness for even cooking.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is already dairy-free due to the coconut milk. If you need to make it vegan, just ensure the fish sauce is omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the curry sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Then, simply assemble and bake the dish when ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cod and curry sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

5. Can I substitute the lime juice?

If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice can be used as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.

Conclusion

This Christmas Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a perfect festive dish that combines the warmth of curry with the lightness of fish. With the creaminess of coconut milk and the freshness of lime, this dish will bring a delightful twist to your holiday meal or any special occasion. Quick to make, full of flavor, and beautifully vibrant, it’s a holiday dish everyone will love. Enjoy!