Breaded cod with bacon

Battered Cod with Bacon – A Crispy and Savory Delicacy

If you're looking for a fish dish that surprises with taste and texture, battered cod with bacon is the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines the delicacy of cod with the intense flavor of bacon but also offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Cooking is an art, and each ingredient plays an important role in creating a memorable dish. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

The story behind the recipe

Cod is a versatile fish, popular in many cuisines around the world. With its white and tender flesh, it is ideal for various dishes. Its combination with bacon, an ingredient with a rich and hearty flavor, adds a touch of refinement to this simple yet delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for both a family dinner and a special occasion, and serving it with fresh vegetables turns every meal into a celebration of flavors.

Ingredients

- 500 g cod fillet (make sure it is fresh and of good quality)
- 200 g bacon (choose a quality variant, preferably without preservatives)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 eggs
- White flour, for breading
- Oil, for frying
- Vegetables for garnish: cherry tomatoes, olives, lettuce, leek, green onion

Details about the ingredients

1. Cod fillet: Choose quality cod, ideally sourced from sustainable sources, such as Norway or the North Sea. Check the label to ensure the fish is fresh and has no signs of repeated freezing.

2. Bacon: An essential ingredient that pairs perfectly with cod. Choose quality bacon with a low content of additives. Smoked bacon will add a unique flavor to the dish.

3. Lemon: Lemon juice will not only add a note of freshness but will also help eliminate the specific smell of fish.

4. Eggs: Eggs will help form a crispy crust. It is ideal to use fresh farm eggs, which have a more intense flavor.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the fish: Wash the cod fillets under cold running water and dry them with a paper towel. Cut the fish into pieces about 10 cm long. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to marinate.

2. Preparing the bacon: Cut the bacon into thin strips lengthwise. It will wrap around the cod fillets, adding a crispy texture.

3. Preparing the eggs: Beat the eggs in a deep bowl with a fork, adding a pinch of salt for flavor.

4. Breading the fish: Take each piece of cod, wrap it with a strip of bacon, then coat it in flour, followed by egg. Make sure it is evenly coated to achieve a crispy crust.

5. Frying: In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the battered cod pieces and fry them on each side for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving

Serve the battered cod warm, alongside your favorite vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, olives, and lettuce are excellent options that will add a touch of freshness. For a dash of flavor, you can grate a little lemon zest over the dish. This will bring a pleasant contrast and enhance the taste.

Variations and suggestions

- Add spices: You can experiment with different spices in the flour mixture, such as smoked paprika or herbs like thyme or basil.
- Oven version: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the cod in the oven. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, until golden.
- Side dishes: This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, a vegetable salad, or a serving of basmati rice.

Nutritional benefits

Cod is an excellent source of protein, being low in fats. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and improve cognitive function. Bacon adds a savory taste, but consumed in moderation, it can be included in your diet. Lemon, on the other hand, is packed with vitamin C, helping to boost the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can also use other types of white fish, such as halibut, hake, or tilapia, which fry well.

2. How can I store battered cod? It is recommended to consume the dish immediately after cooking, but you can store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crispy crust.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, perfectly complements the flavors of this dish. Also, a refreshing lemonade can be an excellent choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Battered cod with bacon will surely become a favorite among your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!