Cod in peanut crust

Cod with Peanut Crust

Who doesn't love a delicious, quick, and healthy meal? Today, I invite you to discover a recipe that will transform any lunch into an unforgettable culinary experience: cod with peanut crust. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the delicate texture of the fish with the crunchiness of peanuts, offering a perfect contrast. Additionally, it is an excellent option for those who want to diversify their meals with a delicious and nutritious fish dish.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 5

Ingredients

- 5 pieces of cod fillet (approximately 600 g)
- 100 g raw peanuts
- 50 g roasted, salted peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk

Step by step

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. This step is essential to ensure even cooking of the fish.

2. Preparing the fish: Clean the cod of scales, then wash it well under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water, which will help achieve a crispy crust.

3. Preparing the egg mixture: In a bowl, beat the egg together with the milk and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. The mixture should be smooth, and its consistency will help the peanut crust adhere to the fish.

4. Crushing the peanuts: Using a blender or a grater, coarsely crush the raw and roasted peanuts. The texture should be slightly larger than sugar granules, so you achieve a crunchy crust.

5. Dipping the fish in the egg and peanut mixture: Roll the cod pieces in the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Then, dip them in the crushed peanut mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

6. Baking: Place the fish pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, increase the temperature to 200°C for an even crispier crust.

7. Serving: When the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, alongside a garlic sauce or a fresh salad.

Practical tips

- Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality cod for optimal flavor. If you can't find cod, you can also use other types of white fish, such as sea bream or trout.
- Variations: You can replace peanuts with nuts, almonds, or sesame seeds for a different flavor. Also, experiment with spices added to the peanut mixture, such as paprika or chili for a spicy kick.
- Complementary sauces: A yogurt sauce with garlic, lemon, and dill pairs perfectly with this dish. Additionally, a light mayonnaise with mustard will add extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, and peanuts provide a significant amount of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it ideal for a healthy lunch.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and dry it well before cooking.
- How long can cooked fish be stored? Cooked cod can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
- What side dish goes best? This cod with peanut crust pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Additionally, a serving of basmati rice or quinoa can complete the meal.

Personal notes

This peanut crusted cod recipe has quickly become a family favorite. Each bite is an explosion of textures and flavors, and my kids love to help me crush the peanuts. It is a recipe that can be easily adapted based on individual preferences and is an excellent way to introduce fish into children's diets.

I encourage you to try this simple and delicious recipe and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!