Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a delightful dish that combines the delicate texture of cod with a creamy, aromatic coconut curry sauce. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The unique blend of spices and coconut milk ensures a meal that’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite among seafood lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sauce
- For the Cod
- For Garnish
- How to Make Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish
- Step 4: Bake the Cod
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- With Steamed Rice
- With Quinoa
- With Fresh Salad
- Topped with Fresh Herbs
- With Lime Wedges
- As Part of a Seafood Feast
- How to Perfect Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Best Side Dishes for Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Reheating Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of fish for Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
- What side dishes pair well with Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
- How spicy is Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
- Can I make Coconut Curry Baked Cod ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the cod’s natural taste.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish supports a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes make this dish not only tasty but visually appealing on your dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Coconut Curry Baked Cod, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of the cod while allowing the sauce to envelop the fish perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients efficiently, ensuring an even distribution of flavors in your curry sauce.
- Whisk or fork: Ideal for blending the coconut milk and spices smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
How to Make Coconut Curry Baked Cod
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your cod bakes evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine coconut milk, olive oil, curry powder, turmeric, ginger, chili powder (if using), minced garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and honey.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Pour the prepared coconut curry sauce over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your Coconut Curry Baked Cod hot!
How to Serve Coconut Curry Baked Cod
Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the cod over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice soaks up the delicious coconut curry sauce, making every bite flavorful.
With Quinoa
- Pair the baked cod with quinoa for a nutritious and protein-packed meal. Quinoa adds a nice texture and complements the dish well.
With Fresh Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the coconut curry. It adds freshness to your plate.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the cod with fresh cilantro or parsley. These herbs not only look great but also enhance the flavor profile of your meal.
With Lime Wedges
- Serve lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing citrus note to each bite.
As Part of a Seafood Feast
- Incorporate Coconut Curry Baked Cod into a seafood platter. Include other seafood favorites like shrimp or scallops for an impressive spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Coconut Curry Baked Cod
To ensure your Coconut Curry Baked Cod turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
-
Use Fresh Cod: Fresh fish has a better texture and flavor compared to frozen cod. Look for fillets that are firm and smell clean.
-
Adjust Spices: Customize the level of spices according to your taste preference. Add more chili powder if you enjoy heat or reduce it for a milder option.
-
Don’t Overcook: Bake the cod until it is just cooked through for optimal flakiness. Keep an eye on it during cooking to prevent drying out.
-
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the curry sauce for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Coconut Curry Baked Cod
Coconut Curry Baked Cod pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:
-
Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk enhances the tropical theme of your meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring sweetness and depth alongside the curry flavors.
-
Garlic Naan: Soft and buttery naan is perfect for scooping up sauce and adds an Indian flair to your dinner.
-
Mango Salsa: A zesty mango salsa offers a sweet contrast to the savory cod, adding brightness and crunch.
-
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip is perfect for balancing out spicy flavors while bringing creaminess.
-
Lentil Salad: A protein-packed lentil salad provides a hearty and nutritious side that complements the fish nicely.
-
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness to each bite.
-
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash offers sweetness and pairs beautifully with coconut curry notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Coconut Curry Baked Cod, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not using enough spices: The flavor of the curry is essential. Be sure to measure your spices accurately to get that rich taste.
- Overcooking the cod: Cod cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it in the oven to prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds brightness. Don’t skip the garnish; it elevates the dish.
- Using low-fat coconut milk: For the best flavor and creaminess, opt for full-fat coconut milk instead of low-fat versions.
- Inadequate marination time: Letting the fish marinate in the coconut curry sauce enhances its flavor. Even a short time makes a difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cod on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place cod on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add cod and cover briefly until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Coconut Curry Baked Cod that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.
Can I use other types of fish for Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
You can certainly substitute other flaky white fish like tilapia or haddock if you prefer.
What side dishes pair well with Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
Serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
How spicy is Coconut Curry Baked Cod?
The spice level depends on your choice of chili powder. You can omit it entirely or adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I make Coconut Curry Baked Cod ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the curry sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the cod when you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Coconut Curry Baked Cod is not just a delightful dish; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. This recipe promises warmth and comfort while introducing exciting flavors into your meal rotation. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Coconut Curry Baked Cod
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a sumptuous dish that brings together the delicate flavors of cod with a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. The alluring spices combined with the smooth coconut milk create a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete dining experience that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chili powder, honey, lime juice, fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, olive oil, curry powder, turmeric, ginger, garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Whisk until smooth.
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the prepared sauce over them.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the fish easily flakes with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg