Air-Fryer Cod: The Perfect Timing

Air fryer cod is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook fish. It's a low-fat alternative to traditional fried seafood, as it requires less oil and still results in a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillets and the type of air fryer being used, but on average, it takes about 6-10 minutes at a temperature of around 200°C.

How to cook frozen cod in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Frozen cod fillets
• Olive oil or cooking spray oil
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Other herbs and spices (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-370°F (180-190°C).
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Place the frozen cod fillets in the basket, leaving space between them.
• Drizzle or spray the fillets with oil and season with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as dried parsley, if desired.
• Air fry the cod for 10 minutes, then flip it over and air fry for an additional 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
• Check that the cod is cooked by inserting a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The fish should be white and flaky throughout.
• Serve immediately.

Tips

• You can cook the cod straight from frozen; there is no need to defrost it first.
• Be sure to spray the air fryer basket and cod fillets with oil to prevent sticking and drying out.
• Don't be tempted to air fry at a higher temperature for less time, as this may dry out the cod.
• If you want to add extra flavor, drizzle the cooked cod with lemon juice.

How to reheat cod in an air fryer

If you have leftover cod and want to reheat it in an air fryer, here are some detailed instructions to ensure your fish is heated through while maintaining its delicious flavour and texture.

Preparation:

Firstly, it is important to note that cod is best reheated in the air fryer if it has been stored properly. Leftover cod should be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for no more than 3 days.

When you are ready to reheat your cod, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will help the fish reheat more evenly.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Before placing the cod in the air fryer, preheat the appliance to around 200°C or 390°F. This temperature is ideal for reheating cod, ensuring it heats through without becoming overcooked.

Prepare the Cod:

While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the cod. Place the fish on a plate or chopping board and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps remove any excess moisture, ensuring your cod doesn't become soggy.

You can also brush the cod with a little oil or melted butter at this stage to help it retain moisture and flavour. Season the fish with salt and pepper or your preferred herbs and spices.

Air Frying the Cod:

Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the cod in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each fillet to allow for proper air circulation.

Air fry the cod for around 3 minutes at 200°C or 390°F. This should be enough time to heat the fish through without overcooking it.

Keep a close eye on the cod during the reheating process, as you don't want it to dry out or become overcooked.

Serving:

Once the cod is heated through, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. Leftover cod that has been reheated in the air fryer is best enjoyed straight away to ensure optimal taste and texture.

You can serve your reheated cod with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or potatoes. Enjoy!

How to season cod for an air fryer

Air fryer cod is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this mild-tasting fish. It is also versatile, as you can season and serve it in many different ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season cod for an air fryer.

Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any excess moisture, allowing the fish to brown better. If your cod has any rogue bones, use your fingers to remove them.

Step 2: Mix the Oil and Lemon Juice

In a small bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. You can also add lemon zest for extra lemon flavour. Brush this mixture on both sides of the cod fillets. The olive oil will help prevent the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket, and it will also allow the seasonings to adhere better to the fish.

Step 3: Make the Seasoning

For the seasoning, you can use a variety of herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. You can also try Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or a simple combination of lemon, dill, and garlic. Mix the seasonings in a small bowl, and then sprinkle them on both sides of the cod fillets.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F (180-200°C). Greasing the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray is also recommended to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Cod

Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer with space between each fillet so that air can circulate. Air fry for 6-10 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets and the brand of your air fryer, so be sure to keep an eye on the cod as it cooks.

Tips:

• For a crispy texture, coat the cod fillets in a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices before cooking.
• If using frozen cod, make sure to thaw it first and pat the fillets dry before seasoning and air frying.
• Don't flip the cod in the air fryer, as it may fall apart if it's not fully cooked.
• Serve with a dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a healthy avocado cilantro sauce.

How to know when cod is cooked in an air fryer

Air-fried cod is a delicious, healthy, and quick meal that can be made in under 20 minutes. Here are some tips to help you determine when your cod is cooked to perfection in an air fryer:

• Check the Internal Temperature: The best way to ensure your cod is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fish and make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C. This is the optimal temperature for safe consumption.
• Visual Inspection: If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can use your senses to determine doneness. Carefully flip one of the cod fillets over and inspect it. The cod is cooked when it has turned from translucent to opaque and is flaky and moist, but not dry.
• Thickness and Timing: The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thicker fillets will take longer to cook. As a guide, a 150g fillet cooks in around 9 minutes, while a thinner fillet may take around 6 minutes. Always keep an eye on your cod from the 6-minute mark onwards.
• Don't Overcook: Cod is a delicate fish, and it's easy to overcook it, resulting in dry and flaky fish. Be cautious and begin checking for doneness earlier rather than later.
• Flip Test: If you're confident your cod is cooked through, try gently flipping one of the fillets with a spatula. If it flakes easily and the flesh separates from the skin, it's likely done.
• Skin Test: If your cod has skin, it can be a helpful indicator of doneness. When the cod is cooked, the skin should easily peel away from the flesh. If it sticks firmly, it may need a little longer.
• Sense of Touch: You can also use your finger to gently press down on the thickest part of the cod fillet. If it feels firm and springs back, it's likely cooked. If it feels mushy or leaves an indentation, it may need more time.

Remember, it's always better to undercook than overcook your cod. If you're unsure, it's best to remove the cod from the air fryer earlier and check if it's done to your liking. You can always put it back in for a little longer if needed.

How to serve air-fried cod

There are many ways to serve air-fried cod, and it pairs well with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Side Dishes

• Boiled new potatoes and steamed green vegetables for a classic combination.
• French fries and tartare sauce for a twist on the traditional fish and chips.
• Rice for a simple and filling option.
• Salad for a fresh and light meal—try a cucumber salad, spring mix salad, or strawberry spinach salad.
• Air fryer vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini, to add some colour and crunch.
• Potatoes in various forms, such as air fryer potatoes, baked potatoes, or sweet potato.
• Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips.

Sauces and Seasonings

• Lemon or a simple lemon butter sauce to add a tangy flavour.
• Tartar sauce for a classic pairing.
• Blackened seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or Old Bay seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Lemon, dill, and garlic for a healthy and light option.
• Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
• Avocado cilantro dipping sauce for something creamy and refreshing.
• Spicy chipotle mayo for an extra punch of flavour.

Frequently asked questions