Patrick Oconnell
Cod and cheese is a classic combination, with recipes for baked cod in cheese sauce and cod au gratin appearing all over the internet. But what are the best cheeses to pair with cod?
A mild, neutral-flavoured fish, cod lends itself well to being paired with cheese. While some people may baulk at the idea of fish and cheese, recipes such as the Brazilian dish bacalhau quatro queijos (cod with four cheeses) prove that the combination can be a winner.
For a classic pairing, a simple cheddar cheese sauce is a great option, and you can also add other mild cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere. For a Portuguese-inspired dish, try a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try a spicy curry sauce or an avocado crema.
So, next time you're planning a cod dinner, why not get creative and experiment with some cheesy combinations?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese used | Mozzarella, Parmesan, White and Yellow Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, Sharp Cheddar |
| Other ingredients | Olive oil, flour, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, butter, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, onion, cream, half and half, cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley or chives, jalapeno, white wine vinegar |
| Cooking method | Pan-fry, bake, broil |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella and Parmesan
A popular recipe for cod is to bake it in the oven with a crust made from Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and butter. This can be served with a mozzarella, spinach, and tomato salad, or a mozzarella and tomato side. The nuttiness of the Parmesan crust goes well with the flakiness of the cod, and the mozzarella adds a creamy texture.
Another option is to bake the cod with a cheese sauce. This can be made by creating a Mornay sauce (a béchamel with added cheese) using a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and other cheeses. This sauce is then poured over the cod and baked until golden.
Roasted Cod with Mozzarella and Parmesan
A roasted cod dish with mozzarella and Parmesan can also be made by topping cod fillets with cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, and then sprinkling Parmesan on top. This dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and golden.
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Cheddar and Monterey Jack
Baked Cod in Cheese Sauce
This classic preparation involves baking cod fillets in a creamy cheese sauce. To make the sauce, you can start by melting butter in a saucepan and adding flour to form a roux. Then, slowly whisk in milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and whisk in the shredded cheese until melted. You can use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even include other cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. Pour the sauce over the cod fillets, sprinkle with a bit of extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This dish pairs well with rice, roasted or boiled potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
Cod au Gratin
Cod au Gratin is a popular dish in Newfoundland and is a great way to showcase the mild flavour of cod paired with cheese. To make this dish, you can start by arranging cod fillets in a baking dish. Prepare a sauce by melting butter and flour together, then slowly whisking in scalded milk. Add seasonings like lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and summer savoury, dill, or tarragon. Mix in some Parmesan cheese, and pour the sauce over the cod. Top with shredded mild cheddar cheese and cracker crumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends!
Other Ideas
If you're looking for simpler ways to incorporate cheddar and Monterey Jack into your cod dishes, here are some options:
- Cod fish tacos: You can use cod fillets as the protein in tacos, and sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top.
- Cod and cheese melt: Create an open-faced sandwich with toasted bread, cod fillets, and melted cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Baked cod with vegetables: Bake cod fillets with a variety of vegetables and a sprinkling of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Cod and potato casserole: Layer cod fillets with sliced potatoes and cheese sauce, using cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a hearty casserole.
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Gruyere and Jarlsberg
Gruyere is a hard cheese that comes from the French-speaking town of Gruyères in Switzerland. It is made from cow's milk and is usually aged for six months or longer, producing a pale-yellow cheese with very few holes. The flavour begins creamy, nutty, and a little bit earthy, but the longer it's aged, the more complex it will be.
Jarlsberg is a mild cheese with large holes and a rubbery texture. It originates in Norway and is easy to find in grocery stores. It is a popular choice for ham and cheese sandwiches or melting recipes like fondue.
When it comes to pairing these cheeses with cod, there are a few ways to go about it. One option is to create a Cod au Gratin, a traditional dish from Newfoundland that combines cod with a mild cheese like Jarlsberg or Gruyere. The mild flavour of cod lends itself well to being paired with cheese, and this dish is a crowd favourite.
Another option is to make a baked cod recipe, such as the New England Baked Cod in Cheese Sauce, which calls for cheddar cheese but can be adapted to use Gruyere or Jarlsberg. These cheeses can also be used in a fondue or a creamy cheese sauce to accompany the cod.
When choosing between Gruyere and Jarlsberg, consider the desired flavour profile and texture. Gruyere has a more complex, earthy flavour and a harder texture, while Jarlsberg is milder and has a rubbery texture due to its larger holes.
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Baked or mashed potatoes
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a classic side dish that can be easily prepared in the oven. Simply scrub the potatoes and prick them with a fork before baking. You can also rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil and season them with salt and pepper to enhance their flavour. Serve the baked potatoes alongside your cod, and don't forget to top them with some butter, sour cream, or chives for added taste.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are another excellent option to accompany your cod. Start by boiling potatoes until they are fork-tender, then drain them and add some milk, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency, and feel free to mix in some garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavour. Serve the creamy mashed potatoes as a side to your cod for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Variations and Tips:
- For a more indulgent option, try making loaded baked potatoes by topping them with cheese, bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream.
- If you're short on time, you can also cook the potatoes in the microwave. Prick them with a fork and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high power for 5-6 minutes per potato, or until tender, turning them over halfway through.
- For a healthier twist, try baking or mashing sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. They have a slightly sweeter flavour and are packed with nutrients.
- Add some texture and flavour to your mashed potatoes by leaving the skin on the potatoes before boiling them. Just be sure to give them a good scrub first!
- If you're serving a larger crowd, you can keep the mashed potatoes warm by placing the pot in a larger pot of simmering water (a makeshift double boiler) until you're ready to serve.
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Rice or couscous
Rice
Rice is a versatile side dish that can be prepared in many ways to complement the flavours of cod and cheese. Here are some rice-based sides to consider:
- Lemon Herb Rice: This is a simple yet elevated rice dish that can be made in one pan in just 15 minutes. The freshness of the herbs and the zesty lemon flavour will complement the richness of the cod and cheese.
- Chimichurri Rice: This rice dish is packed with flavour from ingredients like garlic and parsley. It is a fantastic option to serve with fish, and you can easily make it with white or brown rice.
- Coconut Rice: For a tropical or South Asian twist, try this coconut rice made with basmati rice cooked in coconut milk, along with chopped bell peppers, jalapenos, and carrots.
- Creamy Parmesan Rice: This cheesy, savoury rice is the perfect match for cod seasoned with lemon juice and black pepper. You can also use brown rice instead of white for a healthier option.
Couscous
Couscous is another great option to accompany cod and cheese. Here are some ideas for couscous-based sides:
- Roasted Butternut Squash, Kale, and Cranberry Couscous: This dish can be enjoyed hot or cold and pairs well with garlic butter cod. The sweetness of the butternut squash and cranberries will balance the savoury notes in the cod and cheese.
- You could also try a more simple preparation, such as plain couscous with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil to complement the flavours of the cod and cheese without overwhelming them.
So, which will it be? Rice or couscous? Both options offer a range of flavours and textures that will enhance your meal, so choose the one that appeals most to your taste preferences and culinary skills!
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Frequently asked questions
Some mild cheeses that go well with cod include mozzarella, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, and Jarlsberg.
Yes, there are several recipes that go well with cod, such as New England Baked Cod in Cheese Sauce, Cod au Gratin, and Baked Cod in Cheese Sauce.
Some other side dishes that go well with cod include mashed potatoes, onion roasted potatoes, crispy baked french fries, rice, quinoa, and salads.
A Pinot Grigio is a great choice to pair with cod and cheese.
