En Papillote Cod (Asian-Inspired)

Have you ever craved a delicious fish dinner but dreaded the cleanup? Me too! As someone who loves fish—especially when it's fried or swimming in garlic, butter, and lemon—I'm always looking for easier ways to enjoy my favorite seafood without the hassle.

I grew up loving fish dinners but hating the lingering smell in my house. Not to mention scrubbing pans with stuck-on fish bits! That's why I'm excited to share this en papillote method using Pacific cod from Costco. It's healthy, quick, and best of all—contains all those lovely cooking juices in a neat little parchment paper package.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to try my other simple fish dishes. My blackened salmon takes just minutes to prepare and delivers big on flavor. Or for something different, check out my mahi-mahi recipe that even fish skeptics love!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need for each packet:

• Cod fillet - Mild and flaky, perfect for soaking up bold flavors while staying tender when steamed. You can also use - halibut, tilapia, or salmon. —see our cod vs. salmon guide on taste, nutrition, and cooking tips to decide which fish fits your meal best.
• Fresh ginger - Adds a warm, zesty kick and classic Asian aroma.
• Oyster sauce - Brings rich, savory umami and a hint of sweetness to the marinade. Use soy sauce if not available.
• Sesame oil -A little goes a long way for deep, nutty flavor and aroma.
• Fresh lime juice - Brightens the dish and balances the richness with fresh acidity.
• Garlic cloves - Adds bold, earthy flavor that complements the ginger and sauces.
• Olive oil - Helps keep the fish moist and carries all the flavors while cooking.
• Campari tomatoes- Adds freshness and color. Use cherry tomatoes.
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

See recipe card for quantities.

Additions

• Veggies → Thin carrots, zucchini, or baby bok choy steam beautifully.
• Herbs → Top with scallions or fresh cilantro

Step by Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, having the oven ready is key!
2. Cut your parchment: For each serving, cut a piece of parchment paper about 15x15 inches. Fold it in half.

3. Layer your ingredients: Open your parchment heart and place everything on one side.

3. Seal the deal: Fold the empty half of the parchment over your ingredients. Starting at the top, make small, tight, overlapping folds along the open edge, crimping as you go to create a sealed packet.

4. Transfer to baking sheet: Place your beautiful packets on a baking sheet. If making multiple servings, make sure they don't overlap.

5. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your cod fillets – thicker pieces may need an extra minute or two.
6. Check for doneness: The parchment should puff up and brown slightly. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Serve immediately: Place each packet directly onto dinner plates.

What to Serve with Cod En Papillote?

This dish is practically a complete meal in itself, but if you want to round things out:

• Simple sides: Steamed rice or quinoa soaks up all those amazing juices
• Fresh contrast: A crisp Asian slaw provides textural balance
• Extra veggies: Roasted bok choy or steamed broccoli complement the flavors beautifully

Recipe FAQs

Cod en papillote might sound like something from a fancy French restaurant, but it's actually one of the most forgiving, weeknight-friendly techniques in your cooking arsenal. The Asian-inspired flavors in this version create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Next time you're tempted to order takeout, remember this recipe – it's likely faster than delivery, definitely healthier, and will make you feel like a kitchen genius even on your most exhausted days.

Trust me, once you try cooking en papillote, you'll be folding up little parchment packets of deliciousness on repeat. Your future hungry self will thank you!

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