Grilled Cod

Updated at: 16/12/2024

Grilled cod is a culinary delight, offering a delicate balance of flaky white flesh and subtle sweetness that's easily enhanced with a variety of herbs and spices. Its versatility makes it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more sophisticated dinner party dish, appealing to both seasoned cooks and enthusiastic beginners alike. The simple preparation method allows the natural flavour of the cod to shine, showcasing the quality of the ingredients without needing complex techniques or extensive cooking time. From choosing the perfect fillet to mastering the grill, achieving perfectly cooked cod is more accessible than you might think.

This guide will walk you through each step, from preparing your cod fillets to achieving that perfect char and ensuring a moist, succulent result every time. We’ll explore various flavour combinations and offer tips and tricks for grilling cod to perfection, ensuring your next meal is a delicious testament to the simplicity and elegance of this fantastic fish.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Don't overcook the cod! Overcooked cod is dry and tough. It's best cooked to a flaky, opaque consistency.
  • Ensure your grill is clean to prevent sticking and impart unwanted flavors. Lightly oil the grates before grilling.
  • Handle raw cod safely to avoid cross-contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling, and use separate cutting boards for raw fish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod

    • Season cod fillets with lemon juice, spices, and herbs.
    Prepare the cod: Season cod fillets with lemon juice, spices, and herbs.
    Prepare the Cod

  2. Initial Grilling

    • Place the seasoned cod on the grill. Let it sit for about 3 minutes per side initially.
    Grill the cod: Place the seasoned cod on the grill. Let it sit for about 3 minutes per side initially.
    Initial Grilling

  3. First Check and Flip

    • After the initial 3 minutes per side, check the cod and flip it. Let it continue to cook.
    • At the 7-minute mark, check the cod's progress. Aim for 1:45 cook time.
    Check for doneness at 7-minute mark: At the 7-minute mark, check the cod's progress. Aim for 1:45 cook time.Check for doneness at 7-minute mark: At the 7-minute mark, check the cod's progress. Aim for 1:45 cook time.
    First Check and Flip

  4. Second Check and Doneness Assessment

    • Around the 10-minute mark, the cod should be almost ready. Check for doneness.
    • At the 13-minute mark, check if the fish is flaking well and browning. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
    • The ideal internal temperature for cooked cod is 140-145°F.
    Check internal temperature: The ideal internal temperature for cooked cod is 140-145°F. Check internal temperature: The ideal internal temperature for cooked cod is 140-145°F. Check internal temperature: The ideal internal temperature for cooked cod is 140-145°F.
    Second Check and Doneness Assessment

  5. Remove and Rest

    • Once the cod reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill.
    • Let the cod rest for a minute before serving.
    Rest and serve: Let the cod rest for a minute before serving.Rest and serve: Let the cod rest for a minute before serving.
    Remove and Rest

Read more: How to Grill a Turkey

Tips

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  • Let the cod rest after grilling for better texture.
  • Cod is best when flaky. The seasoning used was Himalayan pink salt, lemon pepper, and garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Cod

Reason: Cod is a delicate fish that cooks quickly and becomes dry and tough if overcooked.
Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and remove it from the heat immediately.

2. Using Too High Heat

Reason: High heat can cause the cod to stick to the grill grates and burn on the outside before cooking through on the inside.
Solution: Pre-heat your grill to medium heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

FAQs

How do I prevent my cod from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled before cooking. Use a grill pan or lightly oil the fish itself with a high-smoke-point oil like olive oil or avocado oil. Don't overcrowd the grill; allow space between fillets for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
How do I know when my cod is cooked through?
The cod is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in dry, tough fish. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register 145°F (63°C).