Cod in Parsley Sauce Recipe
Looking for the best Cod in Parsley Sauce recipe? This classic British seafood dish features tender, flaky cod fillets gently poached and topped with a rich, creamy parsley sauce. Served with buttery mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, this comforting meal is elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight family dinner.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender, flaky cod with a silky parsley sauce
Classic British comfort food
High in protein and low in carbohydrates
Ready in just 35 minutes
Family-friendly and easy to prepare
Perfect for lunch or dinner
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving
Protein: 38 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Cod
4 cod fillets (6 oz / 170 g each)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup fish stock
1 small onion, sliced
2 bay leaves
6 black peppercorns
1 lemon, sliced
Salt, to taste
For the Creamy Parsley Sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups reserved poaching liquid
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and freshly ground white or black pepper, to taste
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
For Serving
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered garden peas
Steamed carrots
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Poaching Liquid
In a large skillet or saucepan, combine:
Whole milk
Fish stock
Onion
Bay leaves
Peppercorns
Lemon slices
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 2: Poach the Cod
Carefully place the cod fillets into the hot liquid.
Reduce the heat to low and poach gently for 8–10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remove the cod and keep warm.
Strain and reserve 1½ cups of the poaching liquid.
Step 3: Make the Parsley Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the reserved poaching liquid until smooth.
Stir in:
Heavy cream
Dijon mustard (optional)
Chopped parsley
Nutmeg (optional)
Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble
Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
Top with a cod fillet.
Spoon the creamy parsley sauce over the fish.
Serve with buttered peas, steamed carrots, and lemon wedges.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair this comforting dish with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered new potatoes
Steamed broccoli
Garden peas
Green beans
Crusty artisan bread
💡 Chef’s Tips
Do not let the poaching liquid boil, as gentle heat keeps the cod tender.
Fresh parsley provides the brightest flavor and color.
Straining the poaching liquid creates a smooth, velvety sauce.
A splash of lemon juice just before serving enhances the freshness of the fish.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store the cod and parsley sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat to prevent the cod from drying out or the sauce from separating.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 430 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes. Thaw the cod completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before poaching for the best texture.
Can I bake the cod instead of poaching it?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then spoon the warm parsley sauce over the cooked fish before serving.
Can I make the parsley sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently over low heat, whisking until smooth.
What side dishes pair well with Cod in Parsley Sauce?
Mashed potatoes, buttered new potatoes, steamed peas, carrots, broccoli, green beans, or a fresh green salad all complement this classic British dish beautifully.
