Cod with meunière sauce

Cod with meunière sauce - a classic and refined recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe history

Meunière sauce originates from French cuisine and is often used to enhance the flavors of fish, especially cod and mackerel. Its name comes from the word 'meunière', which translates to 'milled', referring to the way flour is often used to coat the fish before cooking. This recipe combines simple yet special elements to create a delicious dish that can add a touch of elegance to your meals.

Ingredients

- 800 g fresh cod or mackerel
- 1 lemon (for juice and slices)
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a spicier taste)
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves (sliced or crushed)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Peppercorns (for flavor)
- Capers (optional, for an extra flavor boost)

Step by step - Your culinary guide

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning and washing the cod or mackerel. Use a clean towel to dry the fish well, removing excess water. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during cooking. Cut the fish into appropriately sized portions so that it cooks evenly.

2. Seasoning the fish: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper on all sides of the fish. These seasonings will help highlight the natural flavor of the fish. If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add some peppercorns.

3. Cooking the fish: Preheat the grill or pan over medium heat. Add a few drops of olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the fish pieces on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish turns golden and easily lifts off the grill. This step will add a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the fish juicy inside.

4. Preparing the meunière sauce: In a small saucepan, add 300 ml of water and 50 ml of olive oil. Add the sliced or crushed garlic cloves, a slice of lemon, the lemon juice, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. If you want a spicier taste, you can add the whole chili pepper or slices of chili pepper, depending on your preference.

5. Boiling the sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and carefully add the cooked fish pieces. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce becomes milky white, blending the flavors. This is when the sauce will reveal its full flavor.

6. Serving: Once the sauce is ready, serve the cod with meunière sauce on a bed of warm polenta. Polenta is an excellent accompaniment that will perfectly complement the flavor of the fish. You can also add finely chopped capers for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Practical tips

- Choose fresh fish: Make sure the fish is fresh and of good quality, as this greatly influences the final taste. Look for fish with firm, shiny flesh.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Using high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Capers option: If you choose to use capers, add one-third of the amount finely chopped for an intense flavor. Capers add a pleasant contrast of salty and sour.
- For a richer taste: You can also add some green or black olives to the sauce for added complexity.
- Enriching the sauce: You can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley, to add freshness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of fish? Yes, meunière sauce works excellently with other types of fish, such as sea bream, trout, or tilapia. Just make sure the fish is fresh and well-cleaned.

2. Is this recipe suitable for diets? Cod and mackerel are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. This recipe is relatively light, but you should keep portion sizes in mind, especially if you are following a strict diet.

3. What can I serve alongside cod with meunière sauce? Besides polenta, you can opt for steamed vegetables, boiled potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even risotto for a more sophisticated meal.

4. How can I store leftovers? If you have leftover fish, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat it gently in a steamer or microwave, but be careful not to dry it out.

Nutritional benefits

Cod and mackerel are rich in protein, B vitamins, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health. Preparing fish with meunière sauce enhances nutrient absorption thanks to the olive oil and garlic, which also has antioxidant properties.

Personalized option

For a personal touch, you can add some grilled lemon slices when serving, which will add a special flavor and a crispy texture. This small modification will transform the dish into a true delight!

In conclusion, cod with meunière sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be enjoyed at festive meals as well as on ordinary evenings. Invest a little time and quality ingredients, and you will achieve an unforgettable meal. Enjoy!