This Breaded Cod Loins with Homemade Tomato Sauce combines flaky, tender cod loins coated in a golden, crispy breading with a flavorful homemade tomato sauce. The sauce, made with olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil, enhances the dish with rich Mediterranean flavors. Combining crispy cod and fresh tomato sauce creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This dish is ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients (for four people)
For the Breaded Cod Loins
- 4 cod loins (about 6 oz each, треска in Bulgarian)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Homemade Tomato Sauce
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Make the Homemade Tomato Sauce
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) to the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Bread the Cod Loins
While the sauce simmers, prepare the breading for the cod loins. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Pat the cod loins dry, then season them with salt and pepper. Dredge each cod loin in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the cod into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the cod into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, crispy coating.
Step 3: Cook the Breaded Cod Loins
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to foam, place the breaded cod loins in the skillet. Cook the cod for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the breading is golden brown and crispy and the fish is cooked through and flaky. Remove the cod loins from the pan and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spoon a generous amount of the homemade tomato sauce onto each plate to serve. Place the crispy breaded cod loins on top of the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Tips and Tricks
- Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. It adds both texture and flavor to the cod loins.
- Baking Option: For a healthier option, bake the breaded cod loins in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Tomato Sauce Balance: If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to the sauce to balance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Pasta or Rice: To soak up the flavorful tomato sauce, pair the breaded cod loins with spaghetti, penne, or rice.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to mop up the rich tomato sauce and make the meal more satisfying.
Wine Pairing
- General Wine Suggestion: A light Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the crispy breaded cod and the fresh tomato sauce.
- Bulgarian Wine: A crisp Dimyat or Chenin Blanc from Bulgaria would complement the dish’s fresh and zesty flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
- Sodium: 400 mg
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use dairy-free butter or olive oil for a completely dairy-free version.
About the Breaded Cod Loins with Tomato Sauce
This Breaded Cod Loins with Homemade Tomato Sauce offers a delightful contrast of textures, with the crispy breading on the cod loins perfectly complementing the rich, tangy tomato sauce. The garlic and basil in the sauce add layers of flavor that enhance the mild taste of the cod, creating a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. The breaded cod loins are easy to prepare, making this an excellent option for weeknight dinners or more special occasions.
Cultural Context
Cod, or треска in Bulgarian, is a versatile fish enjoyed in many cuisines across Europe. Combining breaded cod and tomato sauce draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Italian cooking, where fresh, simple ingredients are key. The crispy breading adds texture and contrast to the cod, while the homemade tomato sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, garlic, and basil, creating a balance of freshness and richness.
