Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe
When it comes to weeknight dinners that strike the perfect balance between healthy, flavorful, and elegant, few dishes can compete with the allure of Ginger Soy Glazed Cod. This dish features tender, flaky cod fillets cloaked in a glossy, umami-packed glaze infused with fresh ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. It’s quick enough for busy nights, yet refined enough to serve at a dinner party.
As a professional chef with years of experience crafting recipes that elevate simple ingredients, I can say this Ginger Soy Glazed Cod recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or someone looking to bring more fish into your weekly meals, this dish is approachable, nourishing, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Let’s dive into every savory detail of this show-stopping seafood recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe
- Fast and fuss-free: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy yet indulgent: Lean protein with a bold, satisfying flavor profile.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients for dietary needs or flavor preferences.
This dish celebrates the beauty of cod—a mild, flaky white fish—with a bold glaze that infuses it with Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple yet powerful ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in building depth and complexity in the glaze and balancing the flavors in the dish.
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each) – Fresh or thawed from frozen, skinless preferred
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the fish
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To season before cooking
For the Ginger Soy Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred) – The umami backbone
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the glaze
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar – For a subtle sweetness
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil – Rich, nutty flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and sharp
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – The warming, spicy star of the dish
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional) – To thicken the glaze
- 1–2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional) – For heat, if desired
Garnish (Optional but Recommended):
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Lime wedges for serving
How to Make Ginger Soy Glazed Cod
Step 1: Prep the Cod
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface of the fish will prevent a good sear. Season both sides with a light sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Pro Tip: Cod is delicate—handle it gently to avoid breaking the fillets. A fish spatula or wide, flat spatula is ideal for flipping.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets, presentation side down (the side that used to have skin, if applicable). Sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Ginger Soy Glaze
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a tiny splash of oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them.
Next, pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Stir to combine. If using chili sauce for heat, add it here.
Bring the glaze to a gentle simmer. If you’d like a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes until glossy.
Pro Tip: For a smoother sauce, grate the ginger finely and press the garlic through a garlic press.
Step 4: Glaze and Finish
Return the cooked cod to the skillet. Spoon the glaze over the fillets or gently tilt the pan to coat them. Let them simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to soak up the flavor.
Transfer to serving plates, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the cod. Cod cooks quickly—overcooking leads to dryness. Remove it as soon as it flakes easily.
- Fresh ginger matters. Skip the powdered stuff—fresh ginger gives a clean, spicy warmth that’s essential to this dish.
- Deglaze smartly. If the glaze reduces too quickly or becomes too salty, add a splash of water or stock to mellow it out.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet. It helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
This Ginger Soy Glazed Cod recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are a few easy variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Swap the Fish:
- Halibut, haddock, or sea bass work beautifully.
- Salmon makes for a richer, more buttery version.
- Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist—just press well and sear until golden.
Adjust the Glaze:
- Use maple syrup or agave in place of honey for a vegan option.
- Add a splash of mirin or sake for extra depth.
- Stir in orange zest or pineapple juice for a citrusy flair.
Make it Gluten-Free:
- Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what to pair with this flavorful fish? Here are some well-matched side dishes and accompaniments to complete your meal:
Perfect Pairings:
- Steamed jasmine rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the glaze beautifully
- Garlic sesame noodles – For a heartier, Asian-inspired plate
- Sautéed bok choy or baby spinach – Light and bright greens that balance the dish
- Pickled cucumber salad – Adds a refreshing, tangy contrast
- Miso soup – Makes it a restaurant-worthy, multi-course experience
Wine & Beverage Pairings:
- White wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or an unoaked Chardonnay
- Green tea or a ginger-infused sparkling water for a non-alcoholic option
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To Store:
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The glaze may thicken when chilled, which is perfectly normal.
To Reheat:
Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the glaze. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the cod instead of pan-searing?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, then brush with the glaze and broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the top.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. The glaze can be made 2–3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before glazing the cod.
What’s the best way to know if the cod is cooked?
Cod is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. An internal temp of 145°F (63°C) is perfect.
Final Thoughts: A Cod Recipe Worth Repeating
Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef looking to expand your recipe repertoire, this Ginger Soy Glazed Cod recipe is a true gem. It’s nutritious, vibrant, and packed with bold yet balanced flavors that bring out the best in cod’s naturally mild, flaky texture.
The glaze alone is a keeper—versatile, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Pair it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-worthy meal that’s ready in minutes but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets 5–6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ginger Soy Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water optional, for thickening
- 1 –2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or sriracha optional, for heat
Garnish (Optional):
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Prep the Fish:
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the Cod:
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod, presentation side down, and sear for 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until flaky. Remove and set aside.
Make the Glaze:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce if using. Simmer gently.
Optional: Thicken the Glaze:
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Glaze the Cod:
- Return cod fillets to the pan. Spoon the glaze over the fish and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Serve:
- Plate the fish, drizzle with remaining glaze, and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water.
- Fish Alternatives: This recipe works well with halibut, haddock, salmon, or even tofu.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.
- Make Ahead: The glaze can be prepared 2–3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Serve With: Jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, garlic noodles, or a fresh cucumber salad.