7 Best Seasoning for Cod Fish According to Chefs

Seasoning cod fish and other types of fish is an easy way to enhance flavor and reduce odor to make it more palatable. For those who enjoy experimenting with different fish recipes and flavors, cod fish presents a versatile canvas. Because cod has a mild flavor and an adaptable texture, it’s an ideal candidate for a variety of seasoning blends and cooking methods!

If you’re looking for ways to experience the diverse world of cod seasoning, here are some ideas to get you started.

7 Best Seasoning for Cod Fish

Chefs often recommend a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor of cod. Many herbs and spices used in seasoning, such as garlic and paprika, contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Incorporating these into your cod dishes can add nutritional value to your meals.

Here are some chef-recommended seasoning strategies and flavor combinations to help you make the most out of this versatile fish:

1. Lemon and herbs

This is a classic combination that adds brightness and freshness to the delicate flavor of cod. Lemon zest, thyme, parsley, and dill are commonly used. For this blend, various cooking methods can be used. You can bake, grill, pan-fry, steam, and broil using lemon and herbs!

2. Garlic and parsley

Garlic brings a savory depth to cod, while parsley adds a fresh herbal note. This combination works well for both baking and pan-searing. Whether you choose to bake or pan-sear the cod, the garlic and parsley blend beautifully to create a dish that’s aromatic.

For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider adding a breadcrumb crust to your baked or pan-seared cod!

3. Paprika and cumin

For a more robust and smoky flavor, paprika and cumin can be used to spice up cod. This seasoning blend is particularly delicious when grilled or roasted. When applying the paprika and cumin seasoning blend to your cod, consider marinating the fish for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish.

4. Lemon pepper

Here’s a convenient seasoning blend that combines the tanginess of lemon with the mild heat of black pepper. It adds zing to grilled or broiled cod. For maximum flavor, I would recommend lightly brushing the fillets with olive oil. This helps the seasoning adhere to the fish and creates a barrier that locks in moisture during cooking.

5. Old Bay seasoning

This traditional seafood seasoning blend contains a mix of spices such as celery salt, paprika, and mustard. When used to season cod, this blend adds a depth of flavor and complexity, with the celery salt providing a savory base, the paprika imparting a rich color and smokiness, and the mustard adding a hint of tanginess.

It's particularly well-suited for frying or baking cod, as the spices create a flavorful crust that enhances the mild taste of the fish.

6. Asian-inspired

Soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil can create an Asian-inspired flavor profile for cod. This seasoning blend works well for both steamed and pan-seared cod dishes. To prepare Asian-inspired cod, start by marinating the fish in this mixture and allow the cod to soak up the flavors for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking.

7. Chimichurri

This vibrant and flavorful Argentine sauce is made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. Once your chimichurri sauce is ready, simply drizzle it generously over baked or grilled cod fillets just before serving to add a burst of herbaceousness and acidity!

Related: 7 Best Salmon Marinades

Summary

Don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and try out these seasoning blends and different cooking techniques. You may prefer the bold flavors of garlic and paprika, the freshness of lemon and parsley, or the exotic spices of Asian-inspired marinades — it doesn’t matter. There’s a seasoning blend to suit every palate.

With different flavors to explore, the only limit is your imagination. Happy cooking!