Fish & Seafood

Golden Turmeric Cod with Couscous

Pan-fried cod fillets seasoned with turmeric, served with light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh coriander. A quick, flavourful midweek meal ready in 25 minutes.

4.8 (12 reviews)
By Ricky Robinson Updated September 17, 2024

This turmeric cod with couscous is a straightforward dish that brings together warm, earthy flavours with fresh, bright ingredients. The cod fillets are seasoned with turmeric, which gives them a vibrant golden colour and a subtle spice that works beautifully with the delicate flavour of the fish.

Pan-frying the cod in butter and olive oil creates a lovely golden crust whilst keeping the fish tender and flaky inside.

The cooking method is simple but effective. The butter adds richness to the fish, whilst a touch of olive oil helps achieve that crisp exterior without burning. You need to watch the butter carefully as it melts and starts to brown slightly, but don't let it go too far. Once the cod hits the pan, it only needs a few minutes per side, depending on how thick your fillets are.

Golden Turmeric Cod with Couscous recipe image
Golden Turmeric Cod with Couscous

The couscous is infused with chicken stock, which gives it more flavour than plain water would. It's mixed with red onion, cherry tomatoes, spring onion, and fresh coriander, creating a light and colourful base for the fish. The lemon zest adds a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the butter-fried cod, making each bite feel balanced rather than heavy.

The whole thing comes together quickly, which makes it a practical choice for a weeknight dinner. Whilst the fish cooks, you can prepare the couscous, and within about 25 minutes, you've got a well-balanced meal on the plate. The turmeric cod and couscous complement each other nicely, offering a pleasant combination of tastes and textures without requiring too much effort. It's the kind of dish that feels nourishing and satisfying without being complicated.

Golden Turmeric Cod with Couscous

Cod Couscous Turmeric
Total Time 22 min
Servings 2 servings
Calories 385 cal
Protein 32g

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Medium Bowl
  • Fork
  • Large Skillet

Instructions

  1. 1
    Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Rub both sides of the fillets with turmeric powder and season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt until it starts to brown slightly (watch closely to avoid burning).
  3. 3
    Add the turmeric-dusted cod fillets to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  4. 4
    In a medium bowl, pour hot chicken stock over the couscous, stir, and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  5. 5
    Fold in the chopped red onion, cherry tomatoes, spring onion, and coriander. Add the lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. 6
    Divide the couscous mixture between two plates, then place a cod fillet on top of the couscous on each plate.
  7. 7
    Garnish with a little extra coriander and lemon zest for added freshness.
Ricky Robinson - Recipe Author
Ricky Robinson

Home cook sharing delicious recipes with a focus on flavour and simplicity.

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Tips &
Extras

Keep it fresh

Storage

Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

Plate it up

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a wedge of lemon and extra fresh coriander. This pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans on the side.

Rate & Review

4.8 • 12 reviews

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