Easy Coconut Poached Cod
A quick and healthy dish featuring tender cod fillets gently poached in a creamy, aromatic coconut milk broth infused with lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets cod skinless
- 1 stalk lemongrass finely chopped (tender white part only)
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Finely chop the tender white part of the lemongrass, grate the fresh ginger, and mince the garlic.
- Combine Liquids: In a large skillet or pot with a lid, combine the coconut milk, chicken or vegetable broth, fish sauce, fresh lime juice, red pepper flakes (if using), chopped lemongrass, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Simmer the Broth: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir well and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Poach the Fish: Gently place the cod fillets into the simmering liquid. Ensure they are mostly submerged. If not, add a little more broth or water.
- Cook Covered: Cover the skillet and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets.
- Serve: Carefully remove the poached cod from the liquid. Serve immediately with a spoonful of the aromatic poaching broth, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of blanched greens.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly sear the cod fillets before adding them to the poaching liquid. Feel free to substitute cod with other firm white fish like halibut or snapper. Add a handful of spinach or bok choy during the last few minutes of cooking for added vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.