Description
This Creamy Baked Cod recipe features tender cod fillets baked in a rich and flavorful plant-based creamy sauce, enhanced with smoked turkey bacon and fresh dill. It blends umami and freshness into a wholesome, easy-to-make meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 thick fresh cod fillets (about 150-180g each)
- 1 cup plant-based cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons natural lemon juice
- 100g smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin or agar)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Start with fresh cod fillets, gently pat them dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures the fish is well-flavored and ready to absorb the creamy sauce.
- Cook the Smoky Base: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add chopped smoked turkey bacon pieces and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, keeping the flavorful fat in the pan for the sauce.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, gently sauté minced garlic and finely chopped shallots until translucent and fragrant. Add the plant-based cream, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and freshly squeezed lemon juice (natural). Stir in the natural gelling agent mixture, cooking gently until the sauce thickens to a smooth, luscious texture.
- Combine and Bake: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish, pour the creamy sauce over the fish, and sprinkle cooked smoked turkey bacon on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, scatter fresh dill over the dish for a bright, herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor; select moist, clean-smelling fish.
- Do not overcook the cod to keep it tender and flaky; baking times can vary slightly.
- Adjust lemon juice carefully to balance acidity without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- Prepare all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.
- Use the natural gelling agent sparingly and dissolve well to avoid lumps and ensure a silky sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: creamy baked cod, plant-based cream sauce, smoked turkey bacon, healthy seafood, easy dinner recipe, gluten free cod dish
