Honey Garlic Ginger Baked Cod in Foil Packets
Tender cod fillets baked in individual foil packets with a sweet and savory Asian-inspired glaze. The honey provides natural sweetness while soy sauce adds umami depth, and fresh ginger brings warming heat. This foolproof method steams the fish in its own juices, ensuring moist, flaky results every time. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining when you want restaurant-quality fish without the fuss. The foil packet technique makes cleanup effortless while locking in all the aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch chunk ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven
- 2
Mix together the garlic, ginger, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar to make the marinade
- 3
Pat the cod fillets dry with kitchen paper and season on both sides with salt and pepper
- 4
Place foil sheets in a large roasting tin or baking pan
- 5
Place a cod fillet onto each sheet and shape the sides of the foil up so the marinade will be contained
- 6
Spoon the marinade all over the cod fillets
- 7
Loosely seal the foil to make parcels
- 8
Bake until opaque and flaky
Tips
Pat cod completely dry before seasoning to prevent the marinade from sliding off and ensure better browning.
Test doneness by gently pressing the fish - it should flake easily and be opaque throughout the thickest part.
Save cleanup time by lining your baking pan with parchment paper before placing the foil packets.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked cod for up to 2 days in sealed containers.
Assemble foil packets up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Serve immediately while hot, opening packets carefully to avoid steam burns.
Common Mistakes
Don't overseal foil packets to avoid steam buildup that can overcook the fish.
Avoid opening packets during cooking to prevent moisture loss.
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat very dry before seasoning. Frozen fish releases more moisture which can dilute the marinade flavors.
What if I don't have apple cider vinegar?
White wine vinegar or rice vinegar work well as substitutes. Use the same amount for similar acidity and flavor balance.
How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking the delicate fish.