Looking for a delicious and healthy grilled cod recipe? You’ve come to the right place! In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll show you how to prepare tender and flavorful grilled cod that will leave your taste buds satisfied. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to add more variety to your dinner menu, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy tender and flaky cod with a hint of char from the grill.
What is grilled cod?
Grilled cod refers to a cooking method where fresh cod fillets are cooked over an open flame or on a grill. It's a popular dish enjoyed by seafood enthusiasts around the world.
How do I prepare grilled cod?
To prepare grilled cod, start by glazing the cod fillets in a mixture of butter, tarragon, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the cod fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
Can I grill frozen cod?
While it's generally recommended to thaw the cod before grilling, it is possible to grill frozen cod. However, it may require longer cooking times and careful monitoring to ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked. Thawing the cod beforehand is recommended for best results.
How can I prevent the cod from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the cod from sticking to the grill, make sure the grates are well-oiled before placing the fish on them. Additionally, avoid flipping the cod too early; let it cook for a few minutes on each side before attempting to flip it. This allows a crust to form, reducing the chances of sticking.
Is grilled cod a healthy choice?
Yes, grilled cod is a healthy choice as cod is a lean source of protein and contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Grilling the fish helps retain its nutritional value while minimizing the need for added fats or oils. It's a nutritious and delicious option for a well-balanced meal.
Are there any alternative fish options if I can't find cod?
If you can't find cod, there are several alternative fish options that work well for grilling. Some alternatives include haddock, halibut, snapper, or sea bass. These fish have similar textures and flavors that make them suitable substitutes for grilled cod.
How can I tell if the cod is cooked properly?
To determine if the cod is cooked properly, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and gently twist. If the fish flakes easily and the flesh is opaque, it's cooked. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it's safe to eat, but I recommend cooking it to 135°F. Overcooking can make the fish dry, so be cautious not to exceed the recommended cooking time.
Ingredients
Main
- 4 skinless cod fillets
Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, finely grated
- 1/8 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 pinch of black pepper
BBQ Tools
- 🌡 MEATER Plus Bluetooth Thermometer - great for tracking internal temperature
- 🥩 ThermoPro Instant Read Thermometer - a must-have for any BBQer
- 🔥 GrillBlazer GrillGun - lights charcoal and wood in 1 minute (10% off)
Steps
Preheat the grill
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, 375°F to 400 degrees°F. If using a charcoal grill, I recommend using indirect heat to avoid burning the flesh.
Make the lemon tarragon butter mixture
Take a bowl and place all the ingredients for the butter mixture inside. Stir thoroughly until they are fully blended together.
Prep the cod for the grill
Start by rinsing the cod fillets using cold water, then gently dry them using paper towels. Next, brush the butter mixture across the entire surface of the fillets.
![Cod filets glazed with tarragon butter]()
Place the cod fillets on the grill
To prevent the cod from sticking to the grill grates while cooking, begin by moistening a paper towel with cooking oil. Hold the paper towel with a pair of tongs and delicately glide it across the grill grates. This method will create a non-stick surface. Next, directly place the cod on the grill grates and let it cook for a duration of 6 minutes.
![Cod fillets on the grill]()
Flip, glaze, and continue grilling the cod
Carefully turn over the cod using a spatula, making sure not to damage the flesh. If the cod appears to be sticking to the grill, allow it to cook for an additional minute or two before flipping. Glaze the cod fillets with a remaining butter mixture using a brush with a long handle being careful not to burn yourself. Keep grilling the cod for another 5-6 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F. I suggest using a reliable meat thermometer for accurate results.
![Glaze the cod on the grill]()
Serve the grilled cod
Take the cooked cod off the grill and server it alongside a few lemon wedges.
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