Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor yet feels light and wholesome, this Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe is just what you need. Infused with vibrant spices and creamy yogurt, the cod fillets bake to tender perfection with a subtle smoky edge that will make your taste buds sing. This recipe brings together the magic of Indian-inspired tandoori spices with the delicate flakiness of cod, creating a meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish serves up a colorful, aromatic experience you will want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting this recipe together requires a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but absolutely essential for delivering the rich, layered flavors and beautiful color that make this dish stand out. Each component plays a special role, whether it’s the creamy yogurt tenderizing the fish or the spice blend infusing every bite with warmth.

• 1 lb cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps marinade the fish tenderly; dairy-free alternatives work beautifully too.
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder: The heart of this recipe, providing a bold, aromatic spice mix.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings brightness and balance to the rich spices.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the fish evenly and promotes a lovely baked finish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers an earthy undertone that deepens the flavor complexity.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a light, citrusy note to complement the other spices.
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Gives the dish its vibrant golden hue and subtle warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky sweetness, enhancing the tandoori effect.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Lends gentle zing and a touch of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers comforting depth and aroma to the marinade.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: Fresh herb to finish the dish with a pop of green and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: A zesty accompaniment to squeeze over just before eating.

How to Make Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together the plain yogurt, tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, ground ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture is the powerhouse that gives the cod its signature taste and vibrant color, so make sure everything is well combined for an even coating.

Step 2: Marinate the Cod

Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, using a spoon or your hands to gently coat each piece. Cover and let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This short marination allows the spices to deeply infuse the cod without overwhelming its delicate texture.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Tray

While the fish marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes for an easy clean-up after baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cod

Arrange the marinated cod fillets evenly on the prepared baking tray. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks charred around the edges. The timing may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them for the perfect finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the cod with freshly chopped cilantro and arrange lemon wedges on the side. The herbs and citrus add a fresh lift, enhancing the spices and making the dish even more inviting.

How to Serve Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped cilantro is a must for its bright herbal notes, and lemon wedges allow each person to add a fresh burst of acidity. You might also enjoy a dollop of cooling raita or a sprinkle of finely sliced red onions for added texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up any remaining spices. A simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables would also complement the warm, spicy flavors beautifully without overpowering the cod.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider plating the Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe on a colorful ceramic dish garnished with edible flowers or pomegranate seeds for a touch of elegance. Serving it over a bed of fragrant pilaf or alongside a vibrant lentil dal can elevate your presentation and turn this comfort food into a dinner party showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (and believe me, it happens with this dish), store the cooled cod in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 days and remains delicious when gently reheated.

Freezing

While freshly baked is always best, you can freeze the marinated cod before baking. Place the fillets covered in marinade into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the cod in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the tender fish. This method helps maintain the flaky texture and the vibrant spices.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod works wonderfully due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with haddock, halibut, or even skinless salmon fillets. Just keep an eye on cooking times as thicker fish may need a little longer in the oven.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped green chili to the marinade to bring up the heat level. You can always start mild and increase to suit your taste preferences.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes! You can mix the marinade ingredients a day before and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just toss your cod in the marinade and bake. This can save time on busy days without sacrificing any flavor.

What if I don’t have tandoori masala powder on hand?

You can make a quick substitute by combining garam masala, paprika, cumin, coriander, and turmeric in similar proportions. While the exact flavor profile changes, this will still give you the warm, aromatic spices that define the dish.

Is yogurt necessary in the marinade?

Yogurt is key because it tenderizes the fish and carries the spices evenly, ensuring a moist, flavorful bake. If you cannot use dairy, opt for a plant-based yogurt with a similar consistency and acidity to achieve the same effect.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe that brings a burst of global flavor to your dinner table without any fuss. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for company, making it a versatile favorite that’s sure to find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and watch how this vibrant, fragrant dish becomes your new go-to for fresh, exciting meals.

Baked Tandoori Cod Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Baked Tandoori Cod recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful twist on classic cod fillets, marinated in a rich blend of Indian spices and yogurt for tender, aromatic results. Perfectly baked to flaky perfection, it’s an easy and healthy dish that brings the essence of tandoori cooking into your oven without the need for a traditional tandoor.

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Ingredients

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For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Main Ingredient

• 1 lb cod fillets (about 4 fillets)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, ground ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the spices are fully incorporated into the yogurt base.
2. Marinate the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Coat each fillet thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Place the coated fillets in a shallow dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the fish to bake quickly while developing a slightly charred exterior reminiscent of traditional tandoori cooking.
4. Bake the Cod: Arrange the marinated cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, transfer the cod fillets to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the top, adding a fresh burst of citrus flavor.

Notes

• To keep the fish moist, avoid overbaking; check at the 12-minute mark.
• Use dairy-free yogurt to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• The tandoori masala powder can be adjusted in quantity to suit your spice preference.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Indian