Cod au gratin is a beloved traditional dish that hails from the picturesque Newfoundland region of Canada, nestled along the stunning Atlantic coast. This classic Canadian comfort food perfectly embodies the rich French heritage that has significantly influenced Canadian cuisine. The term “au gratin” translates to “with a crust” in French, reflecting the culinary roots of the early European settlers. Classic Canadian Dish: Cod Au Gratin – Canadian Food Focus
This delightful casserole is a feast for the senses, characterized by its creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping flaky, tender pieces of cod. The dish is crowned with a golden, buttery topping that adds a satisfying crunch, making every bite a warm and hearty experience. It is ideal for a cozy winter dinner. Cod au gratin makes an excellent meal when paired with a side of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, refreshing salad, or vibrant asparagus. We particularly enjoy it alongside crisp green beans and freshly baked Sourdough Bread. This recipe is a definite keeper for rotation and to keep in mind for Lenten meals.
Health Benefits of Codfish
Beyond its delectable flavors, cod offers a wealth of health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your diet. This mild-flavored fish is packed with essential nutrients. These include omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, selenium, and vitamin D. In addition, codfish is also lower in fat than many other types of fish. Above all, codfish is rich in high-quality protein. This protein is vital for muscle repair, energy production, and maintaining a robust immune system.
Cod au gratin Preparation, Servings, and Storage
Preparing cod au gratin is a straightforward process that takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. Yielding around 4-5 hearty servings it makes a fantastic choice for family meals or gatherings. While it is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, any leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it is worth noting that the delightful crispiness of the topping may diminish over time.
Cod Au Gratin
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Ingredients
- 1½ lb Cod filets
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 cup Yellow onion, minced
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 1/2 cup Pinot Grigio
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1½ cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/3 cup Plain bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp Butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375℉
- Cut the cod filets into 1-inch cubes and place them in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- In a large cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced onions and garlic to the butter and sauté until soft.
- Once the onions and garlic are soft, stir in the flour and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with the pinot grigio, scraping the bottom of the pan to bring up any brown bits.
- Simmer the wine for about 5 minutes or until it is reduced by half.
- Add the milk, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and slowly whisk in the parmesan and cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesy cream sauce over the cod pieces.
- In a separate bowl, melt 1 tbsp of butter.
- Stir in the bread crumbs until the bread crumbs are no longer dry.
- Sprinkle the buttery bread crumbs over the top of the cod and cream sauce.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes. The internal temperature of the center of the baking dish should be over 145℉.
- Allow the dish to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
