Introduction
Cod & Potatoes in Rosemary Cream Sauce is a comforting and elegant dish that combines tender cod fillets and thinly sliced potatoes, all smothered in a rich, aromatic rosemary cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The cream sauce, infused with garlic and rosemary, enhances the natural sweetness of the cod and the earthy taste of the potatoes. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, detailed preparation steps, cooking notes, serving suggestions, tips, nutritional information, and frequently asked questions for this delectable dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Rosemary Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the heavy cream to the saucepan and stir in the chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
In a large oven-safe dish, layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Place the cod fillets on top of the potatoes and season them with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Cream Sauce
Pour the rosemary cream sauce over the cod and potatoes, making sure everything is evenly coated. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes to brown the top slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the cod and potatoes hot, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
Cooking Note
For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. This will still provide a creamy texture while slightly reducing the calorie content.
Serving Suggestions
Cod & Potatoes in Rosemary Cream Sauce pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious cream sauce.
- A glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish.
Tips
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen cod, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Slice the potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook uniformly.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce before simmering.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the cream sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g per serving
- Sodium: 600mg per serving
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fish fillets.
Q2: Is it necessary to use fresh rosemary?
While fresh rosemary provides the best flavor, you can use dried rosemary if fresh is not available. Use about half the amount of dried rosemary as you would fresh.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the same instructions, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Q4: How can I make this dish lower in fat?
To reduce the fat content, you can use a light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce.
Q5: What can I use instead of heavy cream if I’m lactose intolerant?
For a lactose-free version, you can use a lactose-free cream or a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor of the dish.
Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them to the baking dish along with the potatoes and cod.
Conclusion
Cod & Potatoes in Rosemary Cream Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender cod, creamy potatoes, and aromatic rosemary cream sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you are preparing a family dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this delightful dish, and feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to make it your own.