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This garlic butter cod strips recipe brings together tender flaky fish with a buttery garlic base and a zesty sweet chili lime sauce for a perfect balance of flavors. It is a quick and elegant main course that feels special but comes together in a snap making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.
Ingredients
- Cod fillets cut into strips: choose fresh firm white fish for best texture
- Unsalted butter: it creates a rich base use good quality for cleaner flavor
- Garlic cloves minced: essential for that aromatic punch
- Salt and pepper: basic seasoning to enhance all flavors
- Paprika: adds mild warmth and color opt for sweet unless you like it spicy
- Fresh parsley chopped: for garnish and a touch of herbal brightness
Sweet Chili Lime Sauce Ingredients
- Sweet chili sauce: the base for sweet and spicy balance try to pick one with good chili flavor and not too sweet
- Lime juice and zest: fresh lime juice and zest brighten and add acidity
- Soy sauce: brings depth and umami
- Sesame oil: for subtle nuttiness
- Sriracha optional: for those who want a little extra heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant and just starting to brown This builds the garlic butter base without burning
- Season the Cod:
- Sprinkle both sides of the cod strips generously with salt pepper and paprika This simple seasoning elevates the mild cod nicely
- Cook the Cod Strips:
- Add the cod strips to the skillet and cook without moving for three to four minutes on each side until the fish is opaque flaky and cooked through The butter and garlic infuse the fish as it cooks
- Prepare the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce:
- Meanwhile in a small bowl whisk together sweet chili sauce lime juice lime zest soy sauce sesame oil and sriracha if using This sauce complements the rich cod with brightness and a little heat
- Serve:
- Drizzle the sweet chili lime sauce evenly over the cooked garlic butter cod strips and sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness Serve immediately for best taste
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My favorite part is how the lime zest lifts the flavors so the cod never tastes heavy. One family dinner we made this we devoured the entire batch despite having a big spread. It quickly became our go-to for easy special meals.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the cod
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh cod is not available try other firm white fish like haddock or pollock Butter can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed jasmine rice or with a crisp green salad to balance richness Roasted vegetables sound great too especially asparagus or snap peas
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Cultural Context
This recipe has a modern American flair combining the classic buttery seafood with Asian-inspired sweet chili and lime elements for a fusion dish that is approachable yet exciting
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of cod should I use for the dish?
Choose fresh cod fillets that are thick enough to cut into strips, ensuring they hold together during cooking and remain tender.
- → How can I tell when the cod strips are properly cooked?
The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Each side usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium heat.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Yes, add more or less Sriracha according to your heat preference or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
- → What is the best way to serve the cod strips?
Serve them warm with the chili lime sauce drizzled over, garnished with fresh parsley to add brightness.
- → Is there a substitute for soy sauce in the sauce?
You can replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or different flavor profile.