Herbed Poached Cod in Savory Sauce

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €9.76 · €2.44/serving

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butterEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flourEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• Coarse saltEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought fish or vegetable stockEst. price €0.25–€0.60
• 1/2 cup whole milkEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 3/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus 4 sprigs, for garnishEst. price €0.75–€1.50
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chivesEst. price €0.30–€0.60
• 1 strip lemon peel (3 inches)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)Est. price €0.15–€0.35
• 4 cod fillets (5 ounces each), skinnedEst. price €8.00–€16.00

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste is formed. Lower the heat to low and continue cooking while whisking for about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to fully incorporate it. Next, whisk in the stock followed by adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, occasionally whisking. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to sit for 10 minutes to thicken slightly before stirring in the parsley and chives.

2. 2

   Start by heating 1 1/2 quarts of water in a medium sauté pan along with lemon peel, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until it reaches a boiling point. Ensure the fillets are not overcrowded as you carefully add them into the liquid. Once it comes back to a boil, promptly switch off the heat and allow the fillets to sit until they are perfectly cooked through, which should take approximately 10 minutes.

3. 3

   If needed, warm up the sauce on medium-low heat and mix in the remaining 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Using a slotted spatula, carefully remove the fillets from the liquid and arrange one fillet on each of 4 plates. Drizzle one-quarter of the sauce onto each serving and decorate with a sprig of parsley for garnish.

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• Cultural note

  Poached cod dishes have a long history in European cuisine, particularly in countries like France and England. The use of fresh herbs in the sauce adds a fragrant and elegant touch, reflecting the sophistication of classic French cooking techniques.

• Seasonal note

  Cod is typically in season during the colder months, making this dish ideal for fall and winter. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives are readily available in spring and summer, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish during those seasons.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins like A, C, and K. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and sugar, making it a nutritious option for those watching their blood sugar levels. However, the high cholesterol and saturated fat content from butter should be consumed in moderation.