Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transports your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. In this remarkably simple and flavor-packed dish, San Marzano Tomato Poached Cod, you will discover the exquisite fusion of tender cod fillets and the luscious embrace of San Marzano tomatoes. Infused with aromatic shallots, garlic, and a harmonious blend of savory spices, this creation is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that promises to tantalize your senses and evoke the spirit of coastal cuisine.
At the heart of this dish lies the cod fillets. Selected for their mild, flaky texture and delicate sweetness, these fillets are treated with the utmost care. Gently seasoned with a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper, they serve as a canvas for the symphony of Mediterranean flavors that await them.
The cod fillets offer a pristine and delectable contrast to the robustness of the San Marzano tomato-infused sauce. Each bite is a testament to the ocean’s bounty, a harmonious marriage of maritime delights and Mediterranean elegance.
Is Cod found in the Mediterranean Sea?
Cod is not typically considered a Mediterranean fish, as it is more commonly associated with colder waters. Cod is abundant in the North Atlantic Ocean and is found in regions around Iceland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and parts of North America.
In the Mediterranean Sea, you are more likely to find a variety of other fish species that are better adapted to the region’s warmer waters and different ecosystems. However, it’s not uncommon for cod to be featured in Mediterranean cuisine as an imported or market-available seafood option, as it can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit different culinary traditions.
The stage is set with San Marzano tomatoes, which are renowned for their exceptional sweetness, low acidity, and vivid crimson hue. Whether whole or gently crushed, these tomatoes take center stage in the creation of the dish. Simmered slowly, they release their intense, sun-ripened essence into the sauce, infusing it with the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean.
Aromatic shallots join the symphony, introducing their subtle sweetness to the ensemble. Minced garlic, the dish’s aromatic backbone, adds its characteristic pungency, enriching the sauce with depth and complexity.
The orchestra of flavors is further enhanced by the addition of dried oregano, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This herbaceous wonder infuses the sauce with earthy, floral notes that evoke the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Europe. For those seeking a hint of heat, a touch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth to the sauce – a nod to the Mediterranean’s bold spirit.
In a harmonious union, the cod fillets are gently nestled into the simmering tomato sauce, where they are enveloped in the fragrant elixir. The lid is placed gently atop the skillet, and the cod begins its poaching journey. It is a dance of flavors and textures, as the fish absorbs the essence of the tomatoes while maintaining its tender flakiness.
As the San Marzano Tomato Poached Cod nears its crescendo, it is time for the garnishes – freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. The vibrant green parsley adds a touch of herbal freshness, mirroring the Mediterranean’s abundant herbs. The Parmesan cheese, with its nutty richness, graces the dish with a decadent finish, an ode to the region’s love for cheese.
Served hot and inviting, the San Marzano Tomato-Poached Cod beckons you to savor every moment. Each bite is a journey through the Mediterranean landscape – tender cod immersed in the velvety tomato embrace, accented by the allure of shallots, garlic, and aromatic spices. The fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese garnish provide the final flourish, elevating the dish to a culinary masterpiece that resonates with the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.
This dish is an expression of Mediterranean dreams brought to life in your kitchen. It encapsulates the art of balance, the interplay of flavors, and the symphony of tastes that define exceptional cuisine. San Marzano Tomato Poached Cod is an invitation to savor the artistry of Mediterranean cooking, where every bite is a symphony of taste, a celebration of tradition, and a journey of culinary delight.
San Marzano Tomato Poached Cod
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes40
minutesSan Marzano Tomato Poached Cod offers tender fillets of cod poached to perfection in a rich and flavorful San Marzano tomato sauce, creating a harmonious Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients
4 fillets of cod (6-8 oz. each)
1 can (28 oz.) San Marzano tomatoes
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 shallots, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
for garnish, freshly chopped parsley
for garnish, grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Cod Fillets:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the tomato sauce. - Prepare the San Marzano Tomato Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. - Add Spices:
Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes. Sauté for an additional minute to release their flavors. - Simmer with San Marzano Tomatoes:
Pour the entire can of San Marzano tomatoes (with their juices) into the skillet. If using whole tomatoes, break them apart with a spoon as they cook. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Crush the tomatoes further as they cook to create a rich sauce. - Poach the Cod:
Gently nestle the seasoned cod fillets into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover the skillet, and let the cod cook in the sauce for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. - Garnish and Serve:
Carefully transfer the cod fillets to serving plates, spooning some of the tomato sauce over each fillet. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
This pairs well with a side dish like Elephant Garlic Mashed Potatoes.