White cod in tomato sauce baked

White cod in tomato sauce baked

Introduction

In the culinary world, white cod is a versatile fish, appreciated for its delicate flesh and fine taste. This baked white cod recipe in tomato sauce is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for family meals or a special dinner. The dish is slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly, providing an unforgettable culinary experience. I invite you to discover this easy-to-make recipe, which will surely become a favorite of yours!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 fillets of white cod
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 large onion, sliced julienne
- 200 ml hot water
- 1 can of 425 ml diced tomatoes in tomato sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- Oregano, to taste
- Granulated garlic, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)

Preparation

1. Preparing the dish: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Take a baking dish and add the 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil. Use a cooking brush or a napkin to spread the oil evenly over the entire surface of the dish. This step will not only prevent sticking but will also add a touch of flavor.

2. Slicing the onion: Take the large onion and slice it into thin strips (julienne). This will add sweetness and flavor to the dish, serving as the base of the sauce.

3. Arranging the ingredients: Evenly sprinkle the sliced onion over the oil in the dish. Rinse the white cod fillets under cold running water, then dry them with a paper towel. Season each fillet with salt and pepper, to taste, then carefully place them over the layer of onion.

4. Seasoning: On top of the fish, sprinkle oregano and granulated garlic, adjusting to personal preferences. Add the two bay leaves, which will infuse the dish with deep flavors.

5. Preparing the sauce: Pour the diced tomatoes in tomato sauce over the fish, ensuring that each fillet is evenly covered. Then, add the 200 ml of hot water, which will help create a delicious sauce.

6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil, then place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 20 minutes. This step will allow the fish to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

7. Finishing the dish: After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and take off the aluminum foil. Let the dish bake for another 10-15 minutes, allowing a light crust to form on the fish and the sauce to thicken.

8. Serving: Once the cod is cooked and the flavors have blended, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If desired, add a little lemon juice over the dish before serving for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips

- You can replace white cod with another type of white fish, such as tilapia or hake, if you want to experiment with different flavors.
- Make sure to use fresh fish for the best results.
- If you want to add more vegetables, you can include diced carrots or zucchini, which will add texture and color to the dish.
- For a spicy note, try adding some chili flakes to the sauce.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This baked white cod in tomato sauce recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. One serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the oil used and the amount of sauce. White cod is an excellent source of protein, being low in saturated fats. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its cardiovascular health benefits, while onions add essential nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of sauce than tomato?
Yes, you can try olive sauce or garlic sauce to change the flavor of the dish.

2. How can I store leftover white cod in tomato sauce?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for 2-3 days.

3. What side dish pairs best with this dish?
Rice or mashed potatoes are excellent side dishes that absorb the delicious sauce. Additionally, a fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal.

4. Can cooked white cod be frozen?
Yes, but it is recommended to freeze the fish without the sauce, as this can affect the texture of the fish upon thawing.

In conclusion, this baked white cod in tomato sauce recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-make yet extremely tasty meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you will create a dish that will impress any fish lover. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and customize the recipe to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!