Steaming Cod Fish: A Simple, Healthy, Delicious Guide

Steamed cod is a healthy, tasty, and simple dish that is especially popular in China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. It is also one of the easiest seafood dishes to prepare, requiring few ingredients and no specialist equipment. The mild flavour of cod means it pairs well with a variety of sauces, and its dense, flaky texture makes it ideal for steaming. This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes and is best served immediately, with steamed rice or a green salad.

How to steam cod without a steamer

Steaming is a great way to cook cod, as it locks in its natural flavour and nutrients without ruining its delicate texture. You can easily steam cod without a steamer by using a pot or pan, a cooking ring or steamer basket, and a couple of inches of water. Here's how to do it:

Using a Heat-Proof Plate and Cooking Ring:

Place a stainless steel cooking ring in the centre of a shallow pot. Make sure the pot is deep enough to accommodate the cooking ring and a steamer plate with the lid on. You can also use a large cookie cutter or similar food-shaping utensil, as long as it's made of stainless steel. If you don't have either, simply crumple 3-4 pieces of aluminium foil into 2-inch balls and place them at the bottom of the pot.

Add about 2 inches of water to the pot, making sure the water level is just below the top of the ring, cookie cutter, or aluminium foil balls. It's important that the water doesn't reach the edges of your steamer plate, otherwise, you might end up poaching your fish.

Place a heat-safe plate that's smaller than your pot on top of the cooking ring. Centre the plate to ensure it's secure and can support the weight of the fish. Check the underside of the plate for the words "Heat-Safe" or "Microwave-Safe" to confirm it can be used.

Turn on the cooktop to medium-high heat and bring the water to a low boil. Once the water is steadily escaping as steam, it's time to add your fish.

Place your fish on the steamer plate. Leave at least 1/2 inch of space between each piece to prevent sticking or uneven heating. Distribute the weight of the fish evenly to avoid tipping or shifting the plate. Cover the pot and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Remove the plate from the pot using a potholder or oven mitt and drain any excess juice before serving.

Using a Steamer Basket:

Season your fish fillets or whole fish and place them in a single layer at the bottom of the steamer basket. Leave about 1/2 inch of space between each piece to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you're using a bamboo basket, line it with parchment paper or lettuce, cabbage, or banana leaves to prevent the fish from sticking.

Fill a pot with 1-2 inches of water, making sure the water level stays below the bottom edge of the steamer basket. You don't want the water to spill over and make your fish soggy. You can also use other liquids like broth, stock, or cooking wine for added flavour.

Place the pot on the cooktop and turn the heat to medium-high. Allow the water to reach a full boil, which should take about 5-6 minutes. You want a thick curtain of steam before adding your fish.

Set the steamer basket inside the pot, making sure it's secure. Most baskets are designed to fit inside standard pots and may have ridges to hook onto the rim. Be careful when lowering the basket to avoid burns and spilling hot water.

Cover the pot with a lid and steam the fish for 5-7 minutes. Thicker fillets may need up to 10-12 minutes. Check that the fish is fully cooked by flaking it gently with a fork. It should be opaque throughout when done.

Remove the steamer basket from the pot using a potholder or oven mitt and serve the fish while it's hot.

Tips for Steaming Cod:

• You can steam the whole cod fish or just the fillets.
• Cod pairs well with various sauces such as sauce vierge, hollandaise sauce, or garlic lemon butter sauce.
• If you're serving with vegetables, steam them first and use the juices from the fish to add extra flavour.
• Always check that your plate and cookware are heat-safe before placing them on the cooktop.

How long to steam cod

The cooking time for steaming cod depends on the thickness of the fillet. A good rule of thumb is to steam the fish for about 10 minutes if it is at least 1-inch thick or thicker. If your fillet is thinner than that, it’s best to reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes to avoid overcooking the fish. For example, a 1.5-inch thick cod fillet will take about 8-9 minutes to cook. Thinner fillets may take only 4-6 minutes.

To check if the cod is cooked, gently poke the middle of the fillet with a fork. If the flaky flesh separates easily, it is ready to be served.

One recipe suggests steaming the cod for 7 minutes and then pouring away the condensed liquid before adding pepper, sauce, garlic oil, and garnish. The fish is then cooked for another 2 minutes.

How to check if cod is cooked

Steamed cod is a delicious and healthy dish, but how can you be sure your cod is cooked to perfection? Well, there are a few simple ways to check.

Firstly, the colour of the fish is a good indicator. A cooked cod fillet should be opaque on the outside, but still a little translucent at the centre. This is a good visual clue that the fish is cooked but be aware that this method is easier to use with fatty fish, like tuna, as they have a deeper colour. For lean fish like cod, it can be harder to tell, so you may need to use another method.

A simple way to check is to use a fork. Insert a fork into the fish and gently twist it at a 45-degree angle. If the cod is cooked, the flesh will flake easily. You can also use your finger to press into the fish gently. If the fish is cooked, it will feel firm, as it will have lost moisture during the cooking process.

If you want to be absolutely sure, you can use a meat thermometer. According to the FDA, fish is safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 145°F. This is the most accurate way to check the doneness of your cod.

When steaming cod, it should take between 4 and 8 minutes, depending on the size of the fillet. It is always best to check, though, as you don't want to overcook or undercook your fish.

What to serve with steamed cod

Steamed cod is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to enhance its mild and subtle flavour. Here are some ideas for what to serve with steamed cod to make a delicious and well-rounded meal:

Vegetables

Steamed or stir-fried vegetables are a healthy and colourful option to accompany steamed cod. Broccoli, cauliflower, and peas are mild in flavour and complement the fish without overwhelming it. For a more rustic, Mediterranean flair, try ratatouille – a combination of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs. Simple steamed or grilled asparagus is another elegant and nutritious choice.

Starch

For a comforting and classic side, mashed potatoes are a great option. Their smooth and buttery texture contrasts nicely with the flaky fish. French fries or sweet potato fries add a crispy texture and a touch of sweetness to the meal. Alternatively, try quinoa, couscous, or rice – these grains can be flavoured with herbs and spices to complement the cod.

Salads

A fresh and crunchy salad can brighten up your seafood dinner. Try a cucumber salad, often mixed with dill, vinegar, and sometimes tomatoes. Or, for something more unusual, a cucumber, avocado, and mango salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. A green salad with a simple vinaigrette is also a great way to keep the meal light and summery.

Breads

Garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser and adds warmth and comfort to the meal. Bruschetta is another easy option that pairs well with garlic butter baked cod.

Sauces

Cod's mild flavour makes it a great base for a variety of sauces. Try a light sauce like sauce vierge, or go for something richer like hollandaise sauce or garlic lemon butter sauce. For an Asian-inspired meal, serve the cod with soy sauce, or make a fragrant sauce with soy sauce, rock sugar, water, and cooking wine.

Appetizers

To start your meal, try some fried dough, crab cakes, or bruschetta – the perfect way to begin any fish feast!

With its mild flavour and flaky texture, steamed cod is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded and delicious meal.

How to prepare cod for steaming

Preparing cod for steaming is a simple and quick process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Clean and Dry the Fish: Start by rinsing the cod fillets or steaks under running water to remove any residue or fishy smell. Gently pat them dry with paper towels or a clean cloth. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, ensuring that the fish cooks evenly and maintains its texture during steaming.
• Marinate (Optional): While not mandatory, marinating the cod can enhance its flavour and help reduce any fishy odour. In a shallow dish, place the cod and sprinkle it with salt and cooking wine. Let the fish marinate for about 10 minutes. You can also add other ingredients like sliced ginger and red chilli pepper to the dish for extra flavour and a touch of spiciness.
• Prepare the Steaming Setup: You can use a steamer, a large wok with a steaming rack, or even a simple pot with a cooking ring. Add water to the steamer or pot and bring it to a boil. If using a wok, ensure it has a steaming rack or basket that fits inside. If using a pot, place a cooking ring in the pot and add boiling water until it reaches the ring.
• Assemble the Cod for Steaming: Balance a plate that fits the size of your pot or steaming rack on top of the cooking ring. Place the marinated cod on the plate, ensuring it is dry before adding it to the steamer. If using a whole fish, you can stuff the cavity with ingredients like ginger, scallions, or herbs for added flavour.
• Steaming Time: Cover the pot or steamer and let the cod steam. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cod. As a general rule, for fillets or steaks that are 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick or thicker, steam for 10 minutes. For thinner fillets, reduce the cooking time to 7 minutes or less. Always ensure the water is boiling before placing the fish in the steamer for even cooking.
• Checking for Doneness: To check if the cod is cooked, gently poke the thickest part of the fish with a fork or chopstick. If the flesh flakes easily and separates into opaque, flaky pieces, it is done. If it still feels resistant, continue steaming for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.
• Remove and Serve: Once the cod is cooked, carefully remove it from the steamer and pour away any condensed liquid that has collected on the dish. Serve the steamed cod immediately, as it is best enjoyed fresh and hot. You can also pair it with sauces, steamed vegetables, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Remember, steaming is an excellent way to prepare cod as it preserves the nutrients and results in a flaky, tender, and juicy texture. By following these steps, you'll be able to master the art of preparing cod for steaming and impress your family and friends with a delicious and healthy dish.

Frequently asked questions