Cod In Parsley Sauce

Here’s a detailed, delicious recipe for Cod in Parsley Sauce, serving 2 people. This is a classic British dish which deserve to be better known.  The cod is gently poached separately in milk, then served with a creamy parsley sauce made from the poaching liquid.

Cod in Parsley Sauce (Serves 2)

Ingredients

For the cod:

• 2 boneless cod fillets (approx. 150–180g each)

• 400 ml whole milk

• 1 bay leaf

• 4 black peppercorns

• Salt to taste

For the parsley sauce:

• 25g unsalted butter

• 25g plain flour

• 300 ml poaching milk (reserved from cod)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (flat-leaf or curly)

• Salt and freshly ground white or black pepper to taste

• Optional: splash of lemon juice or a grating of nutmeg

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan (for poaching)

• Small saucepan (for sauce)

• Slotted spoon

• Whisk

• Sharp knife and chopping board

Time

• Prep: 10 minutes

• Cooking: 15 minutes

• Total: 25 minutes

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Poach the Cod

1. In a medium saucepan, add the milk, bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.

2. Place the cod fillets in the pan (they should be mostly submerged).

3. Heat gently over low-medium heat until the milk starts to steam. Do not boil.

4. Simmer gently for 6–8 minutes, until the cod is just cooked through and flakes easily.

5. Remove the cod with a slotted spoon and set aside on a warm plate. Cover loosely with foil.

6. Strain and reserve 300 ml of the poaching milk for the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Parsley Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly (don’t let it brown).

3. Gradually whisk in the reserved warm poaching milk.

4. Simmer and whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth (about 3–4 minutes).

5. Stir in the chopped parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or nutmeg.

6. Keep warm on low heat until ready to serve.

To Serve

• Spoon the parsley sauce over the cod fillets.

• Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or carrots.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.