How to Grill Cod to Perfection

Grilling cod is a fantastic way to enjoy this mild and flaky fish. Follow these easy steps and tips to grill cod perfectly every time.

Grilling Cod: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a simple method to grill cod effectively:

Ingredients:

Fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each) Olive oil Lemon juice Salt Pepper (Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasoning)

Instructions:

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil to prevent sticking. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. Use a Grill Basket or Foil: To prevent the fish from falling apart, use a grill basket or create a foil packet if needed. If using foil, cut a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil large enough to hold the fillets. Place the cod in the center, add a drizzle of olive oil, and fold the foil to create a sealed packet. Grill the Cod: If using a grill basket, place the fillets directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Serve: Remove the cod from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with additional lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Tips:

Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling. Watch Closely: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Paring: Grilled cod pairs well with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Why Grilling Cod Can Be Challenging

Grilling cod has some challenges due to its structure and low fat content. Here’s a breakdown of the different ways to grill cod successfully:

Direct Grilling:

Direct grilling is possible, but it requires careful handling. Uncoated skinless, boneless fillets can fall apart, while skin-on fillets need to be handled with care. Oiled heavy-duty aluminum foil is a useful tool to prevent sticking.

For skin-on fillets, a super clean, well-oiled grill should be used. Sear the flesh side for just a few seconds (10 max) on a very hot grill before flipping to finish skin side down. However, there is a 50/50 chance that the fillet might crack during the flipping process, so it requires careful handling. No sugar in the marinade is essential when grilling skin-on fillets.

Whole Fish:

The whole fish method can be more forgiving, but it requires a clean, well-oiled grill. If the preparation is simple (e.g., oil and herbs), the fish can go straight onto the hot grill. A grill cage is useful to minimize sticking if using a sweeter Asian-style marinade. Flipping the whole fish on the grill is best done with two spatulas or the cage's handle to make it easier. If uncomfortable, remove the head before serving.

On a well-oiled hot gas grill, a fillet is typically done in about 2–3 minutes, while a whole fish can take 7–10 minutes or more, depending on thickness. Always check for doneness at the thickest part of the fish. For me, I oil the grill, add the fish, and almost close the grill lid, leaving a 3cm gap to let steam escape. This works well, but your results may vary.

Conclusion:

Grilling cod can be a rewarding experience if you follow these guidelines. Whether you choose to grill whole fish, skin-on fillets, or skinless fillets, the key is careful handling and a well-oiled grill. Enjoy your perfectly grilled cod!