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Air Fryer Cod has revolutionized how I prepare this delicate fish at home. After experimenting with various cooking methods, I've discovered that the air fryer creates perfectly flaky, moist cod with minimal effort. The controlled high heat seals in the natural flavors while creating a light, golden exterior that's impossible to achieve through traditional baking.
The first time I served this to my fish-hesitant family, they were amazed by how clean and fresh it tasted. The secret lies in proper preparation and temperature control.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Cod Fillets: Look for thick, white pieces with no grey areas
- Olive Oil: Light olive oil works best at high temperatures
- Paprika: Sweet or smoked both work beautifully
- Garlic Powder: Fresh garlic can burn, powder provides consistent flavor
- Lemons: Fresh for serving, never bottled juice
- Fresh Herbs: Optional but adds nice color and flavor
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Detailed Preparation Steps
- Perfect Fish Preparation:
- Pat fillets completely dry. Check for and remove any bones. Let rest at room temperature 10 minutes. Season just before cooking. Brush oil evenly on all sides.
- Seasoning Application:
- Mix dry seasonings together first. Combine with oil for even distribution. Apply coating gently but thoroughly. Ensure all surfaces are covered. Let seasonings adhere for a few minutes.
- Air Fryer Setup:
- Preheat completely to 200°C/390°F. Spray basket lightly with oil. Position fillets with space between. Don't overcrowd the basket. Place thicker portions toward back.
- Cooking Process:
- Check at 8 minutes first time. Look for slight opacity change. Test with fork for flaking. Avoid overcooking. Let rest in basket 2 minutes.
- Serving Method:
- Transfer carefully with spatula. Add fresh squeeze of lemon. Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately. Provide extra lemon wedges.
My favorite weeknight trick is to prep everything while the air fryer preheats, making the actual cooking process quick and efficient.
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This Air Fryer Cod recipe has become my reliable solution for quick, healthy dinners. The combination of perfectly cooked fish and simple seasonings creates a versatile dish that pairs well with any sides. Whether you're new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro, this method delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know when the cod is done?
- The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, usually after 10-12 minutes.
- → Why pat the cod dry?
- Patting the cod dry helps ensure the seasoning adheres better and the fish cooks evenly.
- → What temperature should I air fry the cod?
- Cook at 200°C/390°F for about 10-12 minutes, checking at the 10-minute mark.
- → Can I use different seasonings?
- Yes, you can customize the seasonings to your taste preferences.
- → Should the fillets overlap in the air fryer?
- No, arrange the fillets in a single layer without overlapping for even cooking.