I have always loved seafood, especially fish. There’s something about the delicate flavors and tender texture that make me drool. One of my favorite types of fish is cod. Its mild taste and meaty texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. But what if you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to thaw the frozen cod before cooking? Well, fear not! I have discovered a quick and easy method to cook frozen cod in the microwave.
Ingredients:
– Frozen cod fillets
– Lemon juice
– Butter
– Salt and pepper
– Herbs of your choice (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
The first thing you need to do is thaw the frozen cod fillets. Now, I know what you’re thinking – didn’t I just say we’re going to cook frozen cod? Yes, I did, but we’re going to partially thaw it first. To do this, simply run the frozen cod fillets under cold water for a few minutes until they are soft enough to be easily separated.
Once the fillets are partially thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important because excess moisture can prevent the fish from cooking evenly.
Step 2: Season the Cod
Now that the cod fillets are ready, it’s time to season them. Squeeze some lemon juice over the fillets to enhance their flavor. Then, generously season each fillet with salt and pepper. If you like, you can also sprinkle some herbs of your choice over the fillets for added flavor.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cover
Next, place a few small pats of butter on top of each cod fillet. Butter helps to keep the fish moist and adds a rich, savory flavor. Once you’ve added the butter, cover each fillet with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. This will help to trap the moisture and prevent the fish from drying out during cooking.
Step 4: Microwave on High
Now that everything is prepared, it’s time to cook the cod. Place the covered fillets in the microwave and cook on high for about 3-4 minutes per fillet. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep a close eye on the fish to prevent overcooking.
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the lid or plastic wrap to release any built-up steam. This step is important to prevent the fish from becoming too soggy. At this point, you can also baste the fillets with the melted butter and juices that have accumulated in the dish. This will help to infuse the fish with even more flavor.
Step 5: Finish Under the Broiler
To give the cod a nice golden crust, transfer the fillets to a preheated broiler for a couple of minutes. Keep a close eye on the fillets as they can burn quickly under the broiler. The goal is to achieve a slightly browned and crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cod is cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate up and savor the deliciousness. Serve the fillets with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
There you have it – a quick and easy method to cook frozen cod in the microwave. This technique is a real lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you just don’t have time to thaw out the fish. So the next time you find yourself with some frozen cod fillets and a growling stomach, give this method a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed!