This Easy Ginger Soy Cod is a quick and healthy seafood dish that brings bold flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. The cod fillets are marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger, creating a delightful umami profile with a hint of sweetness. The fish turns out tender and flaky, absorbing the marinade beautifully. Whether you choose to bake or pan-sear, this dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. It's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each)
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1½ teaspoons grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for added heat
Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
Marinate the Cod:
Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cook the Cod:
Option 1: Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated cod fillets on a parchment-lined baking dish. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Option 2: Pan-Searing
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cod fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, spooning extra marinade over the fish as it cooks.
Optional – Thicken the Sauce:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the leftover marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve:
Place the cooked cod fillets on serving plates. Drizzle with the thickened sauce, if desired. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve alongside steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables.
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g