Every time I make this Soy Glazed Cod with Ginger and Garlic, I’m amazed at how something so simple can taste so gourmet.
The tender, flaky fish soaks up the savory-sweet glaze like a dream, and the aroma of sesame oil and ginger always draws everyone to the kitchen.
It’s elegant enough for date night, but quick enough for a busy Tuesday.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flaky, buttery cod with deep umami flavor
Quick marinade—ready to cook in 30 minutes or less
Can be baked or pan-seared depending on your mood
The soy-ginger glaze adds just the right balance of sweet and savory
Pairs well with rice, sweet potatoes, or veggies
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cod fillets – Mild and flaky; perfect for soaking up marinade
Low-sodium soy sauce – Adds savory depth without being too salty
Honey or maple syrup – Brings subtle sweetness and balance
Sesame oil – For nutty aroma and a hint of richness
Rice vinegar – Adds brightness and acidity
Fresh ginger & garlic – The backbone of this bold flavor combo
Cornstarch slurry – Optional if you want a thick glaze finish
Green onions & sesame seeds – Garnish with freshness and crunch
Red pepper flakes or sriracha – If you like a little heat
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t over-marinate – 15–30 minutes is plenty for delicate cod
Pat fish dry before cooking to get better browning
Use parchment when baking to avoid sticking
Glaze optional—but worth it if you want a saucy finish
Check for doneness – Fish should flake easily with a fork
How to Make Soy Glazed Cod with Ginger and Garlic
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Fish
Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag.
Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring they’re well coated. Let sit for 15–30 minutes.
Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
To Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking dish with parchment paper and place the marinated cod fillets on top.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
To Pan-Sear:
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the marinated cod fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, spooning marinade over as they cook, until golden and flaky.
Step 4: Optional Glaze
Pour any leftover marinade into a small saucepan.
Bring to a simmer. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) and simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the glaze over the cooked fish.
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a touch of red pepper flakes or sriracha if desired.
Serve with rice, sweet potatoes, or your favorite steamed vegetables.
What to Serve It With
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes
Stir-fried bok choy or snap peas
Pickled cucumber salad
Miso soup for a cozy starter
Variations / Substitutions
Salmon or halibut – Also great with this marinade
Maple syrup – An excellent swap for honey
Lime juice – Sub for rice vinegar for a citrusy twist
Chili oil – For bold, spicy flavor
Fresh cilantro – Another bright garnish option
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store cooked cod in an airtight container up to 3 days
Reheat – Gently in a skillet or oven to avoid overcooking
Freeze – Not ideal for delicate cod once cooked
Repurpose – Flake leftovers into rice bowls or lettuce wraps
FAQs
Can I marinate the cod longer?
No—30 minutes max. Longer can break down the fish and make it mushy.
Is baking or pan-searing better?
Both are great! Baking is hands-off, pan-searing adds a golden crust.
Do I need to thicken the glaze?
Not at all. The marinade is flavorful as is, but the glaze is a delicious option.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the marinade and chop garnishes ahead, but cook just before serving for best texture.
What other fish can I use?
Salmon, halibut, tilapia, or even shrimp all work beautifully.
Does it taste sweet?
It’s balanced—the honey/maple adds a hint of sweetness, but not overpowering.
How do I know when cod is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork at the thickest part.
Final Thoughts
This Soy Glazed Cod with Ginger and Garlic is my go-to when I want something nourishing, fast, and packed with flavor.
It’s gentle enough for picky eaters but bold enough to satisfy serious flavor-lovers.
The balance of sweet, salty, and fresh makes it a standout dish—and it comes together with pantry staples. Total win.
Soy Glazed Cod
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to make the marinade.
- Place cod in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
- Pour marinade over and let sit for 15–30 minutes.
- To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place cod on parchment-lined baking dish and bake for 12–15 minutes, until it flakes easily.
- To pan-sear: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/soy-glazed-cod/
Notes
- Salmon, halibut, or tilapia can be swapped for cod.
- For a spicier kick, add sriracha directly into the marinade.
- Leftovers taste great flaked into rice bowls or noodle dishes.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.