Baked Cod with Tomatoes

Baked cod with tomatoes is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender cod cutlets with a rich and tangy tomato sauce. The cod is baked in the oven with a delicious mixture of sautéed onion, garlic, canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and white wine. The result is a moist and flaky cod with a vibrant tomato sauce that complements its delicate flavors.

This dish is simple to prepare and makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal. The combination of the succulent cod, the robust tomato sauce, and the crunchy breadcrumbs creates a delightful contrast of textures. Serve the baked cod with new potatoes and a fresh green salad for a well-rounded and balanced plate.

INGREDIENTS:

• Vegetable oil, for greasing
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 450g/1lb canned chopped plum tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon tomato purée
• 4 tablespoons dry white wine
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 4 cod cutlets
• 2 tablespoons dried breadcrumbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

PREPARATION:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5. Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the finely chopped garlic, canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and dry white wine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
5. Place the cod cutlets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon an equal amount of the tomato mixture onto each cod cutlet.
6. Sprinkle the dried breadcrumbs over the top of the cod cutlets, evenly distributing them.
7. Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes, basting the fish occasionally with the sauce, until the fish is tender and cooked through, and the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp.
8. Serve the baked cod hot with new potatoes and a green salad.

YIELD:

This recipe serves 4.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Testing cod doneness: To check if the cod is cooked through, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fish and gently twist. If the flesh flakes easily and is opaque, the cod is ready.
• Adjusting the seasoning: Taste the tomato sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Serving suggestions: Accompany the baked cod with boiled new potatoes for a comforting side dish. Serve a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the cod and add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Customizing the breadcrumbs: You can mix the dried breadcrumbs with herbs, such as dried thyme or parsley, for added flavor and texture.

TIPS:

• Choosing fresh cod: When purchasing cod, look for firm, translucent flesh with a mild, fresh aroma. Avoid cod with a fishy or ammonia-like smell.
• Customizing the sauce: Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to the tomato sauce, such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavors to your liking.
• Basting for moisture: Basting the cod with the tomato sauce while baking helps to keep the fish moist and infuses it with flavor.
• Using skin-on cod: If using skin-on cod cutlets, place them skin-side down in the baking dish and spoon the tomato mixture over the top. The skin will become crispy as it bakes.

Baked cod with tomatoes is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender cod cutlets and a tangy tomato sauce. The cod is baked to perfection, resulting in moist and flaky fish that pairs beautifully with the rich tomato flavors.

To prepare this dish, the cod cutlets are topped with a savory mixture of sautéed onion, garlic, canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and white wine. The sauce is simmered until thickened and infused with aromatic flavors. A sprinkle of dried breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch and golden color to the dish.

The combination of the succulent cod, the robust tomato sauce, and the crispy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying and well-balanced meal. The dish is further enhanced when served alongside boiled new potatoes and a fresh green salad. The new potatoes provide a hearty accompaniment, while the green salad adds a refreshing element that complements the richness of the cod.

Preparing baked cod with tomatoes is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the tomato sauce and the golden breadcrumbs make it an attractive centerpiece on any table.

Take pleasure in the tender and flaky cod, infused with the flavors of the savory tomato sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Share this flavorful and satisfying meal with your loved ones, and savor the deliciousness of baked cod with tomatoes.