Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe | Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Flaky

Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. The cod fillets are delicate and flaky, perfectly complemented by the savory-sweet ginger-soy glaze. It’s light yet full of flavor, with a nice balance of umami, sweetness, and spice.

This recipe is quick and easy, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights when you want something healthy but impressive. Serve it with steamed rice or sautéed veggies for a balanced meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Here’s how to make it at home.

What Is Ginger Soy Glazed Cod?

Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is a simple yet flavorful dish where fresh cod fillets are marinated and then glazed with a mixture of soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and other seasonings. The glaze gives the fish a glossy, savory-sweet finish that complements the delicate flavor of the cod.

Cod is a white fish known for its mild, flaky texture, making it perfect for absorbing the rich, aromatic flavors of the glaze. The ginger adds a fresh kick, while the soy sauce provides depth. Together, they create a balanced dish that is both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a ton of ingredients to make this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Olive oil for searing
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Ginger Soy Glaze:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon water (optional, to thin out the glaze)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the glaze)

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

The glaze can be adjusted depending on your taste. If you prefer more sweetness, add more honey. If you like it saltier, add a touch more soy sauce.

How to Make Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

The process is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ginger soy glaze:
   • In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
   • Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the glaze to slightly thicken. If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for another minute to thicken.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the cod:
   • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cod fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until the fish is golden and cooked through. The cod should easily flake when tested with a fork.
3. Glaze the cod:
   • Once the cod is cooked, spoon the ginger soy glaze over the fillets. Let the fish absorb the glaze for about 1–2 minutes, turning the fillets gently to coat them in the sauce.
4. Garnish and serve:
   • Transfer the glazed cod fillets to plates and drizzle with any remaining glaze from the pan.
   • Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

Follow these tips to get the best texture and flavor

• Don’t overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly. When pan-searing, keep an eye on it, as it can dry out easily. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
• Adjust the glaze to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more honey. If you like a more tangy finish, increase the vinegar. Just taste and adjust as you go.
• Add a little heat: If you like a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or fresh sliced chili to the glaze.
• Use fresh ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a lot more flavor than ground ginger. It’s worth the extra effort.

What to Serve with Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice: The rice soaks up the flavorful glaze, making it the perfect base for this dish.
• Sautéed spinach or bok choy: Light, sautéed greens balance the richness of the fish and glaze.
• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers roasted with a little sesame oil work great with this dish.
• Pickled vegetables: A side of tangy pickled cucumbers or radishes adds a nice contrast to the richness of the cod.

For drinks, try a cold glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or green tea to complement the meal.

Health Benefits of Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients

• Cod is a great source of lean protein, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Ginger aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Soy sauce adds flavor and is rich in antioxidants (just be mindful of the sodium content).
• Sesame oil contains healthy fats and adds a distinct flavor to the dish.

It’s a balanced, low-calorie meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients.

Make It Ahead of Time

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead

• Make the glaze ahead: You can store the ginger soy glaze in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just reheat it before serving.
• Pre-cook the cod: Cook the cod and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a pan over low heat and glaze just before serving.

This makes the meal even quicker on busy days.

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FAQS

1. Can I use another type of fish instead of cod?

Yes, you can use other mild white fish like haddock, halibut, or snapper. These fish have a similar texture and flavor to cod. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fish may need a bit more time to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Just be sure to check all your ingredients for hidden gluten. The rest of the dish, including the fish and the glaze, is naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While cod is best when freshly cooked, you can prep the glaze in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat when ready to serve. You can also cook the fish and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat gently in a pan with the glaze.

4. How do I know when the cod is cooked?

Cod cooks quickly—usually 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a food thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque, not translucent.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can serve this dish with sautéed vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or steamed broccoli. You could also roast veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers with sesame oil to complement the flavors of the cod.

6. What other seasonings can I use for the glaze?

Feel free to get creative with the glaze. You can add a splash of rice wine vinegar for extra tang, or include a little honey for a sweeter glaze. Garlic powder, chili flakes, or even a dash of lime juice can also give the sauce extra depth.

7. Can I bake the cod instead of pan-searing it?

Yes! You can bake the cod at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Just brush the fish with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Pour the ginger soy glaze over the cod once it’s done baking, then serve.

8. Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. Once thawed, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before cooking. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the fillets.

9. Can I use other sweeteners instead of honey?

Yes! You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar as an alternative to honey. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly depending on what you use, but they’ll still provide that perfect balance of sweetness in the glaze.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The glaze may soften the fish a little, but it will still be flavorful. To reheat, warm the fish gently in a pan over low heat, or you can microwave it for a quick option. The fish will lose some of its crispness but will remain delicious.