If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is the perfect choice. With tender, flaky fish coated in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy glaze, it’s a dish that’s both simple enough for weeknights and elegant enough for entertaining. Paired with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies, this Asian-inspired cod recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ginger Soy Glazed Cod
Equipment
- saucepan
- Whisk
- nonstick skillet or oven-safe baking dish
- Spatula or tongs
- basting brush or spoon
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili paste (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and sriracha. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Season cod lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high with a drizzle of oil. Sear cod fillets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Alternatively, bake cod at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
- Brush or spoon glaze generously over cod fillets. Simmer gently for 1 minute so glaze clings to fish.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Notes
What is Ginger Soy Glazed Cod?
Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is a pan-seared or baked cod fillet topped with a sticky glaze made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey (or brown sugar). The glaze caramelizes beautifully, coating the fish in bold flavors while keeping it moist and tender. It’s a light yet satisfying dish, perfect if you’re craving something healthy but flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Substitutions
- Fish: swap cod for halibut, tilapia, or salmon.
- Honey: use maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Soy sauce: replace with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
- Vinegar: rice vinegar can be swapped with lime juice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the glaze
In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and sriracha. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 2: Cook the cod
Season cod lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high with a drizzle of oil. Sear cod fillets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Alternatively, bake cod at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and finish
Brush or spoon glaze generously over cod fillets. Simmer gently for 1 minute so glaze clings to fish.
Step 4: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Tips for the Best Ginger Soy Cod
- Don’t overcook cod—it should flake easily but stay moist.
- Use fresh ginger for the brightest flavor.
- Thicken glaze enough so it sticks to fish but isn’t gummy.
- Cook cod in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan.
Variations
- Spicy ginger cod: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Citrus twist: Add orange or lime zest to the glaze.
- Miso glaze: Stir in a tablespoon of miso paste for umami depth.
- Vegetable stir-fry cod: Serve cod over stir-fried veggies for a complete one-pan meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended—glaze texture may separate.
- Reheating: Warm gently in skillet over medium-low with a splash of water to loosen glaze.
Serving Ideas
This dish pairs well with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
- Garlic sesame noodles
- Roasted broccoli or bok choy
- Asian cucumber salad
- Pickled vegetables
Nutrition Breakdown
One serving (with glaze) has approximately 280–310 calories, 30 grams protein, 12 grams carbs, and 12 grams fat. Cod is lean and high in protein, making this a light yet filling dinner option.
Conclusion
Ginger Soy Glazed Cod is a flavorful, healthy dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The sweet-salty glaze, fragrant with garlic and ginger, takes mild cod to a whole new level. Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties, this recipe is versatile, nutritious, and absolutely delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just thaw fully and pat dry before cooking.
Is cod a healthy fish?
Yes, cod is lean, high in protein, and low in fat.
Can I bake instead of pan-searing?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, then brush with glaze.
What if I don’t like cod?
Halibut, tilapia, or salmon are great alternatives.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes, cook glaze and fish separately. Store glaze in fridge for 1 week.