Flavorful Coconut Poached Cod Over Jasmine Rice: A Delightful and Aromatic Seafood Recipe

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When you crave a meal that’s both comforting and exotic, you want something that excites your taste buds but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets bathing in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, resting on a bed of perfectly cooked jasmine rice. This Flavorful Coconut Poached Cod Over Jasmine Rice recipe delivers all of that—and more. It’s a dish that brings warmth, richness, and a touch of the tropics right to your dining table.

In this guide, you’ll discover not only how to make this irresistible meal but why it works so well, the science behind each ingredient, and tips to elevate your cooking. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine while impressing anyone lucky enough to share your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Coconut Poached Cod Recipe

Let’s start by understanding what makes this recipe stand out. You might be wondering: why poach cod in coconut milk, and why jasmine rice? Here’s why:

Moist, Tender Cod with a Creamy, Flavorful Sauce

Poaching is a gentle cooking method that keeps your cod moist and delicate. Unlike frying or baking, poaching in coconut milk ensures the fish doesn’t dry out but rather absorbs subtle, aromatic flavors. The coconut milk acts as a luscious base, balancing the mild sweetness of the cod and the savory spices.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Jasmine Rice: The Perfect Complement

Jasmine rice isn’t just any rice. Its floral aroma and soft, slightly sticky texture complement the creamy sauce beautifully. Together, they create a harmonious plate that’s both filling and light.

Exotic Spices That Are Easy to Find

You don’t need to hunt down rare spices to make this dish. Ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and yellow curry paste come together to form a rich, complex flavor without overpowering the cod.

Nutritious and Balanced

This meal packs protein from the cod, healthy fats from the coconut milk, and moderate carbs from the rice, making it a wholesome, satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.

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Ingredients: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Find

Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need on hand. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients along with tips for selecting the best versions:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cod fillets	4 (6 oz each)	Choose fresh or thawed frozen
Jasmine rice	1 ⅓ cups	Rinse before cooking
Water	1 ⅔ cups	For cooking the rice
Kosher salt	To taste	Coarse preferred
Neutral oil	As needed	Vegetable or canola oil
Shallot	1 small, minced	Adds a subtle sweetness
Garlic cloves	2, minced	Use fresh for best aroma
Fresh ginger	2 tsp, minced	Provides warmth and zing
Ground coriander	½ tsp	Earthy and citrus undertones
Ground turmeric	½ tsp	Adds color and mild flavor
Ground cinnamon	¼ tsp	Warm, fragrant note
Yellow curry paste	1 tbsp	Store-bought or homemade
Coconut milk	1 can (13.5 oz)	Full-fat for creaminess
Cilantro sprigs	2	For simmering and garnish
Freshly cracked pepper	To taste	Adds subtle heat
Lime juice	1 lime	Brightens and balances flavors
Fish sauce	1–2 tsp	Adds umami depth
Scallions	2, thinly sliced	Garnish
Cilantro leaves	2 tbsp	Garnish
Watercress (optional)	As desired	Adds fresh, peppery bite

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Poached Cod and Jasmine Rice

Cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following these clear steps, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Let your cod sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, mince the shallot, garlic, and fresh ginger, and gather your spices. Preparing everything beforehand will keep the cooking process smooth.

2. Cook the Jasmine Rice

• Rinse 1⅓ cups jasmine rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This prevents it from becoming sticky.
• In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, 1⅔ cups water, and a pinch of kosher salt.
• Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
• Let it simmer undisturbed for 12 minutes. After cooking, remove from heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

3. Make the Aromatic Base

• Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add enough neutral oil to coat the bottom.
• Once the oil shimmers, add minced shallot, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

4. Add Spices and Curry Paste

• Stir in ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and yellow curry paste. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to release the spices’ aroma without burning.

5. Whisk in Coconut Milk and Simmer

• Slowly whisk in the can of coconut milk until smooth.
• Add cilantro sprigs and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Poach the Cod

• Gently nestle the cod fillets into the coconut sauce.
• Cover the pan and reduce heat to medium-low. Poach for 8 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

7. Finish the Sauce and Plate the Dish

• Stir lime juice and fish sauce into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and plate it. Place the poached cod on top and spoon the coconut sauce generously over the dish.

8. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle thinly sliced scallions, fresh cilantro leaves, and optional watercress on top. Add a few cracks of black pepper to finish.

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Tips for Cooking the Best Jasmine Rice

If you want your jasmine rice to impress every time, here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Rinsing: Always rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. This removes surface starch that can make rice gummy.
• Water ratio: Use slightly less water than with other rices. For jasmine, 1⅔ cups water per 1⅓ cups rice works well.
• Don’t peek: Once simmering, keep the lid on tightly to allow steam to cook the rice evenly.
• Resting period: After cooking, let the rice sit covered off the heat for 10 minutes. This step allows the moisture to redistribute for fluffier grains.

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How to Make the Aromatic Coconut Curry Sauce

This sauce is where the magic happens. The layers of flavor come from carefully balanced spices and fresh ingredients.

• Fresh aromatics: Shallot, garlic, and ginger provide a fragrant, savory base.
• Spice toast: Heating the coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon releases essential oils that deepen the sauce’s flavor.
• Curry paste: Adds complexity and a touch of heat; adjust amount based on your spice preference.
• Coconut milk: Choose full-fat for a creamy, rich texture that coats the fish beautifully.
• Herbal notes: Adding cilantro sprigs during simmering infuses the sauce with subtle freshness. Remove before serving to avoid overpowering the dish.

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Serving Suggestions and Garnishes to Elevate Your Dish

Presentation makes your meal feel special—and the garnishes add fresh flavor contrasts:

• Scallions and cilantro: Add crunch and bright herbal notes.
• Watercress (optional): Offers a peppery bite that cuts through the creaminess.
• Lime wedges: Serve on the side for an extra burst of acidity.
• Pairings: Try this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lime to balance richness.

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Nutrition Information: Healthy and Wholesome

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a nourishing choice for your body:

Nutrient	Per Serving (approximate)
Calories	450-500 kcal
Protein	35-40 grams
Carbohydrates	45 grams
Fat	15-20 grams
Fiber	2-3 grams
Sodium	Moderate, adjustable by salt

• Cod provides high-quality, lean protein with omega-3 fatty acids.
• Coconut milk delivers healthy saturated fats and a creamy texture without dairy.
• Jasmine rice offers energy through complex carbs with a pleasant aroma.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I substitute cod with other fish?

Yes! Firm white fish such as halibut, haddock, or sea bass work beautifully. Adjust poaching time slightly for thicker or thinner fillets.

Q2: What if I don’t have yellow curry paste?

You can mix turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, and a pinch of chili powder as a substitute. This blend mimics the warm, complex flavors of curry paste.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

Separate the rice from the fish and sauce for best results. Store in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

Q4: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The jasmine rice and sauce reheat well. For the best texture, reheat fish gently or add it fresh after warming the sauce and rice.

Q5: Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free. Just check your curry paste ingredients to ensure no gluten-containing additives.

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Conclusion: Bringing Flavor and Comfort to Your Table

You now have everything you need to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting. This Flavorful Coconut Poached Cod Over Jasmine Rice recipe blends simple, fresh ingredients with aromatic spices to deliver a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare.

By mastering the poaching technique and balancing the flavors of coconut milk, curry spices, and fresh herbs, you’re sure to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share your dinner. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, try this recipe tonight, and enjoy a delightful culinary escape at home.

If you loved this recipe or have your own tips and twists, share them in the comments below or tag me on social media. Let’s spread the joy of cooking flavorful, wholesome meals together!

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