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Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts is a delicious and healthy meal that brings together fresh flavors and easy cooking techniques. This dish features flaky cod and vibrant Brussels sprouts, all enhanced by a tangy lime and fish sauce mixture. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this recipe is a great choice.
Steamed cod is light and delicate, while the lime and fish sauce add a burst of flavor. The Brussels sprouts provide a pleasant crunch and are packed with nutrients. Plus, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it accessible for everyone, even those with busy schedules.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts. First, it is healthy. Cod is a low-calorie fish that is high in protein and contains important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Brussels sprouts are also packed with vitamins and minerals, making this meal a nutritious option.
Second, the flavor combination is outstanding. The acidity from the lime juice balances the richness of the cod, while the fish sauce adds a savory depth. The garlic and ginger bring warmth and complexity to the dish, making every bite enjoyable.
Third, this recipe is easy to make. With simple ingredients and clear steps, even someone who is new to cooking can follow along. It allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Finally, this dish is versatile. You can serve it with sticky or jasmine rice, allowing you to adapt it to your taste preferences. Whether you want something light or more filling, this recipe has you covered.
HOW TO MAKE Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts, you will need some basic kitchen equipment:
- Steamer or steaming basket
- Large pot (for steaming)
- Mixing bowl
- Pan for sautéing
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 480g Icelandic cod fillets (2 x 240g packs)
- 2 unwaxed limes, zest and juice
- 3 tbsp nam pla fish sauce
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 20g piece ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 1.5 tbsp caster sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable or sunflower oil
- 400g Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 500g sticky or jasmine rice (2 x 250g packs)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Prepare rice according to package instructions. Start cooking your rice first, as it takes the longest. Follow the directions on the packaging for the best results.
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In a bowl, mix lime zest, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and caster sugar. This mixture will be the sauce for your cod. It is full of flavor and will soak into the fish as it steams.
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Place cod fillets in a steamer, pour the lime and fish sauce mixture over the fish. Arrange the cod fillets in the steamer and be sure to cover them well with the sauce. This will help infuse the cod with all of that beautiful flavor.
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Steam the cod for about 15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your fillets, but keep an eye on them. When they’re done, they should be flaky and tender.
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In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat, add Brussels sprouts and sauté for about 5 minutes. While the cod is steaming, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts. Make sure they are trimmed and ready to go.
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Add sesame seeds and continue to cook until sprouts are tender. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Cook everything together until the sprouts are tender and slightly browned.
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Serve the steamed cod with Brussels sprouts and rice on the side. Once everything is cooked, it’s time to plate the dish and enjoy your meal!
HOW TO SERVE Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts
When serving Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts, aim for a balanced plate. Place a portion of rice in the center, add a nice piece of the steamed cod on top, and arrange the sautéed Brussels sprouts beside it. Drizzling some extra fish sauce or lime juice over the entire meal can enhance the flavors even more.
For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of herbs like cilantro or green onions. This not only adds to the presentation but also complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, it’s best to do this gently to avoid overcooking the fish. Use the microwave or steam the cod lightly again.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the fish and sprouts. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. They can typically stay good for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
You can serve Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts with various sides to complement the dish. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to add more freshness to the meal.
Another option is to serve it with a bowl of broth or soup, which pairs well with the lightness of the cod. You can also consider offering some bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce.
VARIATIONS
This recipe is quite flexible. If you don’t have cod, other fish like salmon or tilapia can work well. The cooking times may vary, so check for doneness as you go.
You can also switch up the vegetables. Instead of Brussels sprouts, try asparagus, green beans, or bok choy. Each vegetable will give the meal a different flavor and texture.
For a more spicy kick, consider adding some sliced chili peppers to the fish sauce mixture or garnishing the sprouts.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the lime and fish sauce mixture and trim the sprouts ahead of time. The rice can also be cooked earlier in the day.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use a gluten-free fish sauce, this recipe can be gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to be sure.
3. Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to thaw it completely before steaming. This will help cook it evenly.
4. What should I do if I don’t like fish sauce?
If you are not a fan of fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little lime juice for a different flavor profile.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts
To save time on busy days, you can do some prep work ahead of time. You can mix the lime, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and sugar the morning of or the night before. Store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to go when you need it.
Another make-ahead tip is to cook the rice in advance. It reheats well and will easily pair with the cod and Brussels sprouts. You can also trim the Brussels sprouts beforehand to save time on cooking day.
This recipe is quick, delicious, and adaptable, making it a great choice for any night of the week. Enjoy your Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts!
Steamed Cod with Lime and Fish Sauce Sprouts
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare rice according to package instructions. Start cooking your rice first, as it takes the longest.
- In a bowl, mix lime zest, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and caster sugar to create the sauce for the cod.
- Place cod fillets in a steamer, pouring the lime and fish sauce mixture over the fish.
- Steam the cod for about 15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat, add Brussels sprouts and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add sesame seeds and continue to cook until sprouts are tender.
- Serve the steamed cod with Brussels sprouts and rice on the side.