Spiced Cod with Creamy Red Lentils
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with our Spiced Cod with Creamy Red Lentils. This nourishing one-dish meal combines tender, flaky cod with a vibrant and hearty base of spiced red lentils, enriched with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. The dish strikes a perfect balance between healthiness and flavor, making it a family favorite. The comforting texture of the lentils paired with the delicate cod creates an inviting dish that’s bursting with warmth and just the right amount of zest. Serve it up with a splash of lemon and some fresh coriander for a bright finish. Whether enjoyed in a bowl or a plate, it's bound to impress at your dinner table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
red lentils
3/4 cup (Rinse well)
ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon (N/A)
fish stock
2 1/2 cups (N/A)
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (N/A)
cumin seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons (N/A)
grated ginger
1 tablespoon (Grate fresh ginger)
cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed)
chopped fresh coriander
2 tablespoons (Chop finely)
cod fish fillet
1 lb (Skinned and cut into large chunks)
salt
to taste (N/A)
lemon wedge
1-2 (For garnish)
Instructions
1
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Place them in a saucepan with the ground turmeric and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are just tender. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
2
In a small frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sizzle until they start to pop, then stir in the grated ginger and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, mixing well to release the spices' full flavor.
3
Pour the sautéed spice mixture over the cooked lentils. Add the lemon juice and chopped fresh coriander, gently folding them into the lentils without breaking them.
4
Gently lay the cod pieces on top of the lentil mixture. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5
Serve immediately, garnished with additional coriander leaves and lemon wedges for a fresh zest.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Cod with Creamy Red Lentils?
It is a nourishing one-dish meal that combines flaky cod with a hearty base of red lentils flavored with aromatic spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include red lentils, cod fish fillet, fish stock, vegetable oil, cumin seeds, fresh ginger, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and fresh coriander.
How should I prepare the red lentils before cooking?
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear to ensure they are clean before simmering.
How long do the lentils need to simmer?
The lentils should simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are just tender.
What type of stock is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of fish stock to cook the lentils.
How is the spice mixture prepared?
Heat vegetable oil, sizzle cumin seeds until they pop, then stir in grated ginger and cayenne pepper for about 30 seconds.
How much cod fish is required?
You will need 1 lb of cod fish fillet, skinned and cut into large chunks.
When do I add the spice mixture to the dish?
The sautéed spice mixture is poured over the lentils once they have finished simmering and are tender.
How do I cook the cod in this recipe?
Lay the cod pieces on top of the cooked lentil mixture, cover the pan, and cook on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
How can I tell if the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick recipe and an easy dinner, ideal for a busy weeknight.
What garnish is recommended for this dish?
Garnish the dish with additional fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges.
What role does turmeric play in the lentils?
Ground turmeric is added to the simmering lentils to provide a vibrant color and subtle earthy flavor.
How much ginger is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy recipe that balances high-protein cod with fiber-rich lentils and aromatic spices.
What amount of red lentils should I use?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of red lentils.
What kind of oil is best for the spice tempering?
The recipe suggests using 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
When should I add the lemon juice?
Add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the lentils after the spice mixture has been added.
Can I adjust the salt in this dish?
Yes, salt should be added to the lentils to taste after they have finished simmering.
Should the pan be covered while simmering the lentils?
Yes, use a tight-fitting lid to simmer the lentils effectively.
What is the serving suggestion for this meal?
Serve it immediately in a bowl or on a plate with fresh lemon zest and coriander for brightness.
How much cayenne pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a gentle kick of heat.
How much cumin seed is required?
Use 1 1/2 teaspoons of cumin seeds to be sizzled in the oil.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, this is a convenient one-dish meal where the fish is cooked directly on top of the lentils.
How should the coriander be prepared?
The coriander should be chopped finely; use 2 tablespoons within the lentils and more for garnish.
What is the texture of the lentils in this dish?
The lentils are described as creamy and comforting, providing a hearty base for the fish.
What heat setting should I use for cooking the fish?
The fish should be cooked on low heat while covered to steam gently over the lentils.
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but ensure the cod is fully thawed and patted dry before cutting into chunks for the best results.
What makes this dish a family favorite?
It is a family favorite because it combines comforting textures with vibrant, healthy flavors that appeal to many.
How much turmeric is needed?
You only need 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric for this recipe.