How to Microwave Fresh Cod
Cooking cod at home might seem a bit intimidating. With its potential to emit strong fishy odors and reputation for being tricky to get just right, many home cooks sh away from it. But, surprisingly, microwaving cod fillets turns out to be a game-changer.
Using an Anyday dish enhances the experience by preserving the fish's moisture and natural briny flavor. The silicone-lined lid of the dish works wonders, preventing any lingering odors and ensuring a pleasant cooking experience. This microwave method lowers the power level, which ensures the fish remains tender, juicy, and never rubbery. The result? A flaky, fork-tender result that is as delicious as it is simple to prepare.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 4-6oz (115-170g) fresh cod filet
- salt or seasoning to taste
Preparation
- Place the fresh cod in the Anyday dish and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave at Power Level 5tooltip for 3-5 minutes, or until cod flakes easily with a fork.
- If the fish needs more cooking time, cook in 30-second increments until the cod is cooked through to your liking.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Cajun spice: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the fish before cooking good with corn and baby potatoes.
- Sesame teriyaki: Coat the fish with teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds before cooking perfect to enjoy with some rice.
- Ginger scallion sauce: Top with a combination of minced ginger, chopped scallions, and a splash of sesame oil before cooking for a fresh, aromatic, and slightly spicy taste.
- Ranch spice: Season with some ranch powder and cayenne before cooking for a zesty flavor that’s great for fish tacos.
Recipe notes
- Reducing the power level helps keep the fish tender and juicy and avoid a rubbery texture.
- Make sure to select your microwaves wattage for the most accurate cook time.
- For frozen cod, follow the directions in this recipe.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Fresh Cod
See for yourself— microwaving fresh cod is simply faster, start to finish.
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave in an Anyday dish | 3-5 mins |
| Oven* | 25 mins |
| Stovetop* | 15 mins |
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* | 20 mins |
All You Need to Know About Microwaving Fresh Cod Fish
Can I cook fresh cod in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Power Level | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| One 4-6oz fresh cod fillet | 5 | 3-5 mins |
| Two 4-6 oz fresh cod fillets | 5 | 4-6 mins |
| Three 4-6 oz fresh cod fillets | 5 | 5-7 mins |
| Four 4-6 oz fresh cod fillets | 5 | 7-9 mins |
Absolutely! Fresh cod can be cooked directly in the microwave using an Anyday dish without extensive preparation. For best results, season the cod to taste, place it in an Anyday dish, and follow the recommended cooking time in this recipe. The microwave preserves the fresh flavors and texture, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal!
How long does it take to cook fresh cod in the microwave?
The microwave cooking time for fresh cod varies, but a general guideline is 3-4 minutes for a 4-6 oz fillet. Factors such as fish size, microwave wattage, and desired texture can influence cooking time. For optimal results, start with the lower end of the time range and adjust as needed. Follow the simple steps in the recipe above to ensure your fresh cod is perfectly cooked. For frozen cod, follow the directions in this recipe.
Why do I need to lower the power level when microwaving fresh cod?
By using a lower power setting, you allow the heat to distribute more evenly, resulting in a flaky and fork-tender fillet. High power levels can cause the outer layers of the fish to cook too quickly, leading to a rubbery texture, while the inside may remain undercooked. For the best results, follow the recommended power level and cooking time in the recipe.
How do I know when fresh cod is properly cooked in the microwave?
Fresh cod is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque, emits hot steam, and easily flakes when torn with a fork. To ensure doneness, test a small piece. Keep in mind that microwave wattages and power levels can differ, so adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal results.
How do I store leftover microwaved fresh cod?
To preserve leftover microwaved fresh cod, store it in an Anyday dish with the lid on in the refrigerator. It usually stays fresh for 2-3 days. When reheating, simply microwave for a few minutes, checking occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. Enjoy reheated fresh cod with ease and convenience.
