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Delicious Gratinated Cod Fillet Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet impressive recipe that combines the delicate taste of fish with a crispy and savory crust, gratinated cod fillets are the perfect choice. This recipe will not only add flavor to your meal but will also be a healthy dish, packed with nutrients. Let's discover together how we can turn simple ingredients into a true feast!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 cod fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons of milk
- 4 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons of grated cheese (you can use Delaco for a less salty flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Lemon slices for serving

The Story Behind the Recipe

Cod is a fish appreciated worldwide for its delicate flavor and fine texture. Gratinating is a culinary technique that involves baking a dish with a crispy crust, often made from breadcrumbs or cheese. This recipe combines both elements, resulting in an easy-to-make dish full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests.

Preparing the Gratinated Cod Fillets

1. Thawing the fish: Make sure the cod fillets are completely thawed. It’s best to let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This way, the fish will retain its texture and flavor.

2. Seasoning: Once the cod fillets are thawed, season them with salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides. This step is essential to add a note of flavor to the fish.

3. Preparing the egg mixture: In a small bowl, whisk the egg well with the 4 tablespoons of milk. This combination will help the breadcrumbs stick to the cod fillets and add pleasant moisture to the dish.

4. Coating the fillets: Brush each cod fillet with the egg mixture on both sides. Then, in a large plate, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated cheese. Dip the fillets into this mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

5. Preparing for the oven: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the fillets bake for 30 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly.

Serving

After the fillets are cooked, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot, alongside a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Add lemon slices for a touch of freshness that will perfectly balance the rich flavor of the fish.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan for a different flavor. Additionally, you can add herbs like dill or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost.

- Perfect sides: These gratinated cod fillets pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, plain rice, or sautéed vegetables. A tomato and cucumber salad with lemon dressing will add a refreshing note to your meal.

- Storing the fillets: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within the next 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.

Nutritional Benefits

Cod fillets are an excellent source of lean protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also contain vitamins B12 and D, essential for energy metabolism and bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Panko is an excellent option for a crunchier texture. You can also use ground oats for a healthier version.
- Is this recipe suitable for diets? Yes, gratinated cod fillets are a healthy choice, and by controlling the amount of oil and cheese, you can reduce the calories.

Therefore, gratinated cod fillets are not only an easy recipe to make but also a healthy and delicious choice. Try it and enjoy a special dish that will satisfy even the most refined tastes!