The scent of melt-in-your-mouth fish simmering in rich, warm butter wafts through my kitchen, igniting a culinary excitement that’s hard to contain. This Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli is not just a meal; it’s a moment of indulgence that can effortlessly transform your weeknight dinner into an elegant affair. With its delicate texture and luxurious flavors, it promises to impress everyone at your table, yet the beauty lies in its simplicity—perfect for even the most novice home cook. Plus, the homemade tarragon aioli adds a delightful creamy touch, making this dish a gluten-free crowd-pleaser that will have your loved ones asking for seconds. Are you ready to dive into this delicious seafood adventure?

Why is Butter Poached Cod Special?

Decadent yet easy to prepare: This Butter Poached Cod is an elegant dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Flavorful tarragon aioli is a game-changer, adding a creamy finish that elevates each bite. Impressive for gatherings yet perfectly suited for a cozy weeknight, this recipe guarantees compliments all around. Pair it with seasonal vegetables or a vibrant salad, and you’ve got a well-balanced meal that everyone will adore. Don’t forget to check out our Garlic Butter Fettucine for a delightful side!

Butter Poached Cod Ingredients

For the Cod
• Butter – Provides richness and flavor; unsalted is preferred for precise seasoning.
• Cod (1 ½ lb) – The star ingredient; fresh cod is ideal, but frozen can work if thawed properly.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp + ¼ tsp for seasoning) – Enhances overall flavor; can adjust based on dietary preference.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds a mild spice; freshly ground is recommended for best flavor.
• Chili (1, red or green, optional) – Adds subtle heat, adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
• Fresh Tarragon (3 sprigs) – This herb infuses aromatic flavors; you can substitute with oregano or parsley if desired.
• Garlic (2 cloves, smashed) – Enhances depth of flavor; fresh garlic brings out the sauce’s complexity.

For the Tarragon Aioli
• Egg (1 large) – Acts as an emulsifier for aioli; make sure it’s fresh for safety.
• Minced Garlic (1 clove) – Adds flavor to the sauce; using fresh is always best.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (4 tsp) – Brings acidity and freshness; freshly squeezed is best.
• Canola Oil (½ cup) – Serves as the base for aioli; neutral flavor, may substitute with another neutral oil like grapeseed.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (½ cup) – Adds richness and flavor; using good quality makes a difference.
• Chives (for serving) – A lovely garnish for presentation; feel free to use other fresh herbs if you like.

Dive into making this Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli, and experience a dish that marries warmth and elegance on your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli

Step 1: Make Clarified Butter
Begin by melting 1 ½ sticks of unsalted butter in a medium skillet over low heat. Watch as the milk solids separate and rise to the top, creating a foamy layer—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Once melted, carefully skim off the foam with a spoon, leaving just the clear butter behind. This clarified butter will enrich your Butter Poached Cod.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet with the clarified butter, add three sprigs of fresh tarragon and two smashed cloves of garlic over medium heat. Allow the mixture to warm gently, about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic brown. This infuses the butter with aromatic flavors that will beautifully enhance the cod.

Step 3: Poach the Cod
Cut 1 ½ pounds of cod into 3-4 equal pieces and season each piece with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Gently place the cod into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the butter. Cover the skillet and poach the fish for 6-10 minutes. Keep an eye out for opaque, flaky fish while removing pieces as they finish cooking.

Step 4: Prepare Tarragon Aioli
As the cod cooks, grab a food processor and combine one large egg, one minced garlic clove, and 4 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Blend these ingredients together for about 30 seconds, allowing them to amalgamate. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in ½ cup of canola oil. You’ll see the aioli start to thicken—this will take another minute or so.

Step 5: Finish Aioli
Next, while continuing to blend, incorporate ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil, whisking until fully combined and creamy. Once the aioli is thick and smooth, mix in finely chopped tarragon, adjusting the seasoning with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper for flavor. Your tarragon aioli is now ready to complement your Butter Poached Cod.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To serve, carefully transfer the poached cod to plates, ensuring to drizzle with the buttery sauce from the skillet. Scoop a generous dollop of tarragon aioli over the cod. For a colorful touch, garnish with chopped chives, a sprinkle of sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Your Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli is beautifully plated and ready to impress!

Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli Variations

Feel free to play around with these delightful twists to make this dish even more your own!

Herb Swap: Swap tarragon in the aioli for fresh basil or dill to introduce a new flavor profile. Each option brings a refreshing herbaceous note.
Fish Substitute: Use halibut or salmon as alternatives for the cod, depending on preference and availability. This small change can create a whole new experience while keeping the same delicious poaching technique.
Spice It Up: Increase or decrease the chili in the aioli for your preferred heat level. For those who crave more kick, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra zing.
Creamy Twist: For a richer aioli, incorporate a dollop of Greek yogurt into the mix. This not only adds creaminess but also brings a tangy flavor that works beautifully.
Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based variation, consider poaching hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant in the butter. You can still enjoy the luxurious texture while exploring different flavors.
Citrus Lift: Enhance the aioli with a splash of orange juice or zest for a sweet and zesty contrast, providing a delightful freshness that complements the butter.
Garlic Infusion: For those who adore garlic, double the amount in the aioli for an extra punch. You can never go wrong with more flavor, right?

Don’t forget to check out our delicious French Butter Cake for a sweet ending to your meal! Each variation adds a unique flavor experience while maintaining the integrity of this splendid dish. Go ahead, let your creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Butter Poached Cod

Fridge: Store leftover Butter Poached Cod in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the buttery sauce to enhance flavor when reheating.

Freezer: If you need to freeze, wrap the poached cod tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before gently reheating in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter if necessary to reclaim that rich flavor.

Aioli Storage: The homemade tarragon aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This creamy condiment remains a delightful companion to your cod even after a few days!

What to Serve with Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli

The perfect meal isn’t just about a single dish; it’s a delightful symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas that come together on your table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the delicate fish, making each bite luxurious.
Roasted Asparagus: With its crisp yet tender texture and subtle earthiness, this green veggie not only complements the cod but adds vibrant color to your plate.
Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty side, this salad with fresh herbs and lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that balances the meal beautifully.
Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes for the perfect accompaniment, perfect for scooping up aioli or the flavorful butter from the cod.
Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness offers a wonderful textural contrast, and their mild flavor allows the richness of the cod to shine through.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay echoes the buttery notes of the fish while enhancing the flavors of the tarragon aioli for an elevated dining experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: End your meal on a refreshing note with a light fruit salad; the sweetness of fresh berries and citrus brightens the palate after the rich main course.

Expert Tips for Butter Poached Cod

Clarify Carefully: Take your time melting the butter on low heat. Burning it can ruin the delicate flavor you want for your Butter Poached Cod.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh herbs and high-quality oils for the best aioli. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Perfect Poaching: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures each piece of cod gets evenly cooked in the buttery bath, leading to a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Make Ahead Aioli: If you’re short on time, feel free to prepare the tarragon aioli a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This will save you time and let the flavors meld beautifully.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning for your aioli and cod to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for a flavor boost!
Garnish Wisely: Fresh chives not only add flavor but also enhance presentation. A colorful garnish elevates your Butter Poached Cod and makes it restaurant-worthy!

Make Ahead Options

These Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tarragon aioli up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply blend the aioli ingredients and store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy consistency. Additionally, you can pre-portion and season the cod pieces up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply poach the cod in the clarified butter, take care not to overcrowd the skillet for even cooking, and finish with the freshly made aioli for a delightful, easy meal any night of the week!

Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli Recipe FAQs

What type of cod is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, fresh cod is preferred for the best texture and flavor. However, if fresh cod isn’t available, you can use frozen cod as long as it’s properly thawed. Just make sure it’s fully defrosted before cooking, and you’ll still get a delicious result!

How should I store leftover Butter Poached Cod?
To keep your leftover Butter Poached Cod fresh, simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Remember to keep some of the buttery sauce to drizzle on top when reheating!

Can I freeze Butter Poached Cod?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the poached cod tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently in a skillet on low heat.

What if my aioli doesn’t thicken?
If your tarragon aioli doesn’t thicken as expected, don’t fret! Just make sure you’re adding the oils slowly while blending. If it’s still too runny, you can try blending in a bit more oil until you reach the desired consistency. If all else fails, adding a little extra egg yolk can also help it to emulsify.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Indeed! This Butter Poached Cod with Tarragon Aioli is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check any additional ingredients you might use, like granulated garlic or other condiments, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I make tarragon aioli in advance?
Very! You can prepare the tarragon aioli up to a day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully in that time, and it saves you effort on the day you plan to serve the cod. Just give it a good stir before using!