The Best Homemade Black Cod Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade black cod recipe is a delightful way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen with ease. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, using just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. The result is incredibly flavorful, with tender, melt-in-your-mouth fish that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with omega-3s, making it as good for you as it is delicious.
Recipe

Black cod, also known as sablefish, is a rich and flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with a simple marinade. This recipe highlights its buttery texture and delicate taste, making it a perfect dish for a gourmet meal at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 black cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons sake
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Place the black cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the fish from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade.
- Heat vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the fish fillets for 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the fish is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Serve the black cod fillets drizzled with the reduced marinade.
Notes:
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the fish overnight.
- If you don’t have mirin, substitute with a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar.
Equipment:
- Small saucepan
- Shallow dish or resealable plastic bag
- Oven-safe skillet
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Japanese
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Black cod is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provides a good source of protein. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
What To Serve With It
When it comes to pairing sides with black cod, I love balancing its rich flavor with something fresh, like a citrusy kale salad or roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, garlic mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf work beautifully. Don’t forget a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to round out the meal perfectly!
Flavorful Side Dishes
If you’re wondering what to pair with homemade black cod, I’ve got some tasty suggestions that’ll make your meal unforgettable. Start with garlicky sautéed spinach—it’s quick and lets the fish shine. Roasted baby potatoes with rosemary add a crispy, herby bite. For something fresh, try a citrusy avocado salad with lime dressing; it cuts through the cod’s richness. Steamed jasmine rice works if you want something simple but satisfying. And don’t forget grilled asparagus—it’s got that smoky crunch. Each side brings its own flavor, so mix and match to find your perfect combo. Trust me, you can’t go wrong!
Perfect Wine Pairings
To elevate your homemade black cod dinner, let’s talk about wine pairings that’ll make each bite sing. I love a crisp, citrusy white like Sauvignon Blanc—it cuts through the fish’s buttery richness without overpowering it. If you prefer something rounder, a lightly oaked Chardonnay adds a creamy touch that complements the cod’s melt-in-your-mouth texture. For a fun twist, try a dry Riesling; its subtle sweetness balances the dish’s savory notes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sparkling rosé brings brightness and bubbles to the party. Trust me, the right wine turns this meal into something truly special. Cheers!