Craving a quick, flavorful rice dinner recipe? This Coconut Red Curry Cod with Jasmine Rice is your answer for a delicious and easy meal. You’ll love how simple it is to bring vibrant Thai-inspired flavors to your table tonight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cod Fillets: You can easily swap cod for other firm white fish like tilapia or snapper.
- Red Curry Paste: Use a good quality brand for authentic flavor; adjust to your spice preference.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk provides the best creamy texture, but light coconut milk works too.
- Jasmine Rice: Any long-grain white rice can be used in a pinch.
- Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger can be substituted, use about 1/2 teaspoon per tablespoon of fresh.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Red Curry Cod:
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or neutral oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2-3 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but recommended for depth)
- 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1.5-2 inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
For the Jasmine Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1.5 cups water
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or Dutch oven, medium saucepan for rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Jasmine Rice
Rinse your jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Curry Base
Add the red curry paste to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to deepen its flavor. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, then stir in the brown sugar and fish sauce (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Vegetables and Cod
Carefully add the green beans and cherry tomatoes to the simmering curry. Nestle the cod pieces gently into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve the Coconut Red Curry Cod over fluffy jasmine rice, garnished generously with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your flavorful rice dinner!
Variation Ideas
- Add More Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red curry paste or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Different Protein: Try shrimp, chicken, or firm tofu instead of cod.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Coconut Red Curry Cod and jasmine rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you prepare this meal ahead of time?
A: You can chop your vegetables and mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time. It’s best to cook the cod fresh.
Q: What if you don’t have fresh ginger?
A: You can use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of fresh.
Q: Is this dish very spicy?
A: The spice level depends on your red curry paste and how much you add. Start with less and add more to your preference.
Q: Can you use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time and water ratio according to package directions.
Q: How do you know when the cod is cooked?
A: Cod is cooked when it turns opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
Q: Can you freeze this dish?
A: While the curry sauce freezes well, cooked fish can become dry or rubbery when frozen and reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.