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Parmesan Crusted Cod in the Air Fryer: Crispy Perfection

There’s something utterly delightful about a perfectly cooked piece of fish, and when it comes to cod, it is often hailed as a British favourite. Cod is not only mild and flaky, making it incredibly versatile, but it also serves as a blank canvas for various flavour profiles. One of the most delicious ways to prepare cod is by giving it a delectable Parmesan crust. And thanks to the wonders of the air fryer, it’s never been easier to achieve that crispy perfection without the excess oil of traditional frying methods.

The Allure of Air Frying

Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook, offering a quicker and healthier alternative to conventional frying. By circulating hot air around the food, these appliances create a beautifully crispy exterior without drowning the fish in oil. This makes it easy to enjoy the rich taste of fried foods while keeping the meal lighter and more nutritious.

Ingredients You Will Need

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (approximately 150-200g each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup (about 50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (about 50g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 large egg
• Juice of half a lemon
• Olive oil spray or a little olive oil for brushing

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Cod: Start by ensuring your cod fillets are thoroughly thawed (if using frozen) and pat them dry with kitchen paper. This will help the coating stick better. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and black pepper.

2. Create the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried parsley. This aromatic blend will give your cod an irresistible flavour and texture.

3. Egg Wash: In another bowl, beat the egg and add the lemon juice. This mixture serves as a binding agent to help the crumb adhere to the fish.

4. Coat the Fillets: Dip each cod fillet first into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully covered, then transfer it to the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly so that the coating sticks well. Repeat with the second fillet.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures the cod will start cooking immediately, resulting in a crunchy exterior.

6. Air Fry the Cod: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, then place the coated fillets inside. Spray the tops of the fillets with oil to promote crisping. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and crispy and the fish is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 63°C or 145°F).

Serving Suggestions

Once your Parmesan crusted cod is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. It pairs excellently with a variety of sides. You might serve it alongside herby new potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A wedge of lemon on the side enhances the flavour, adding a zesty twist that complements the savoury crust beautifully.

Conclusion

Parmesan crusted cod in the air fryer is a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy coating, rich in flavour and light in texture, makes this dish astar attraction on any dining table. With its straightforward preparation process and the air fryer’s efficiency, you’ll soon find this recipe becoming a staple in your cooking repertoire—one bite and you’ll understand why! So, fire up that air fryer and treat yourself to a seafood delight that embodies crispy perfection.