Miso Glazed Black Cod

Miso Glazed Black Cod is a luxurious, restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Featuring buttery, flaky black cod marinated in a sweet and savory miso glaze, this elegant dish delivers deep umami flavor with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, yet incredibly flavorful and impressive. The miso marinade deeply infuses the fish with rich, slightly sweet notes, while the high-heat roasting creates a beautifully caramelized glaze. It’s a fantastic option for a special dinner, date night, or when you want to bring gourmet dining to your kitchen without much effort.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Black cod (also known as sablefish) fillets
• White miso paste
• Mirin
• Sake
• Brown sugar or honey
• Soy sauce (optional, for depth)
• Sesame oil (optional, for richness)
• Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine white miso paste, mirin, sake, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth. Let it cool.
2. Place black cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the cooled miso marinade over the fish, ensuring all sides are coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
5. Remove fish from marinade, gently wiping off excess.
6. Place fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. For extra caramelization, broil the fish for an additional 1–2 minutes.
8. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 6–24 hours
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: up to 24 hours (with marinating)

Variations

• Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Try with salmon or sea bass if black cod isn’t available.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade for brightness.
• Incorporate fresh ginger or garlic for an aromatic twist.
• Serve over rice, soba noodles, or steamed vegetables for a full meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a 300°F oven until just heated through (about 8–10 minutes). Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.
The miso marinade can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQs

What is black cod?

Black cod, also known as sablefish, is a rich, buttery fish known for its delicate texture and high oil content.

Can I substitute another type of fish?

Yes, salmon, halibut, or sea bass are great alternatives if black cod isn’t available.

Do I have to marinate overnight?

For the best flavor, overnight marinating is ideal, but even 6 hours will work in a pinch.

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes, black cod grills beautifully—just be sure to oil the grates well and cook gently to avoid sticking.

What type of miso should I use?

White miso (shiro miso) is recommended for its mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements fish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be—just make sure your miso paste and soy sauce are gluten-free.

What sides go well with miso black cod?

Steamed jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, edamame, or miso soup make excellent accompaniments.

Can I freeze the marinated fish?

Yes, place the fish in the marinade and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Why is the fish so tender?

Black cod has a high fat content, which keeps it moist and buttery even at high temperatures.

Can I reuse the marinade?

No, discard any marinade that has touched raw fish for food safety reasons.

Conclusion

Miso Glazed Black Cod is a stunning yet simple dish that brings bold flavor and delicate texture to the table. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a gourmet seafood experience right at home. Whether for a special occasion or an elevated weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

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