Black Cod Miso is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavor of black cod with a deliciously sweet and savory miso marinade. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. It's one of those recipes that hits all the right notes with minimal fuss.
Black cod is the star of the show. Its high fat content makes it perfect for broiling, as it stays moist and flavorful. White miso paste adds a rich umami flavor that complements the fish beautifully. Sake and mirin are rice wines that add depth and a subtle sweetness to the marinade. Sugar intensifies the caramelization process, while soy sauce provides a salty balance. Finally, assorted pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that contrasts the rich fish.
Black Cod Miso pairs wonderfully with a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavors. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a more elaborate meal, consider pairing with a miso soup or a light seaweed salad.
To start, grab a small bowl and whisk together the miso paste, sake, mirin, sugar, and soy sauce until everything is smooth. You want the mixture to be well combined, as this is the powerhouse of flavor that will infuse the fish.
Place your black cod in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, making sure it gets all over the fish. Cover it up and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the fish.
When you're ready to cook, preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil and give it a light brush of oil. This helps prevent the fish from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Take the black cod out of the marinade and place it on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. You’re ready to broil! Pop it under the broiler for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to get nicely caramelized, and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
Once done, serve immediately. The contrast between the rich, buttery fish and the tangy pickled vegetables is simply divine.