This elegant yet simple dish features tender cod fillets nestled within soft napa cabbage leaves, bound together with seasoned rice. The subtle sweetness of the cabbage complements the delicate flavor of the fish, while the rice adds a satisfying texture. Steaming ensures the ingredients remain moist and flavorful without heavy sauces. Perfect for a light dinner or a healthy lunch option, this recipe is quick to prepare and visually appealing. It&# 226;ÂÂs a wonderful way to enjoy fresh seafood with minimal effort, offering a balanced meal that feels both comforting and refined.
Steamed Cod With Rice
Description
This elegant yet simple dish features tender cod fillets nestled within soft napa cabbage leaves, bound together with seasoned rice. The subtle sweetness of the cabbage complements the delicate flavor of the fish, while the rice adds a satisfying texture. Steaming ensures the ingredients remain moist and flavorful without heavy sauces. Perfect for a light dinner or a healthy lunch option, this recipe is quick to prepare and visually appealing. It&# 226;ÂÂs a wonderful way to enjoy fresh seafood with minimal effort, offering a balanced meal that feels both comforting and refined.Ingredients
Directions
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Rinse the long grain rice under cold water until water runs clear.
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In a small saucepan, combine the rice, water, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
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Remove rice from heat and let it cool slightly until manageable to handle.
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Fill a large pot or steamer with enough water to reach the steamer rack, add 1 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil.
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Carefully place the napa cabbage leaves into the boiling water and blanch for 2 minutes until softened but still vibrant.
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Using a slotted spoon, remove the cabbage leaves and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
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Drain the cabbage leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
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Season the cod fillets lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Brush each cod fillet with a thin layer of oyster sauce.
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Lay a napa cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface, stem end facing towards you.
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Place approximately 1/4 cup of the prepared rice in the center of the leaf, spreading it into a flat oval shape.
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Place a seasoned cod fillet in the center of the rice.
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Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped ginger over the cod.
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Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf inward over the rice and fish.
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Fold the bottom stem end up over the fish, then continue rolling tightly to form a secure bundle.
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Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage leaves, rice, and cod fillets.
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Arrange the bundles seam-side down on the rack of a steamer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other.
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Cover the steamer and steam the bundles for 15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
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Carefully remove the steamer basket from the heat.
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Transfer the steamed cod bundles to serving plates and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 343.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.1g13%
- Saturated Fat 1.3g7%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 440.1mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 81.0g27%
- Dietary Fiber 26.1g105%
- Sugars 0.1g
- Protein 8.7g18%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, use firm, fresh cod fillets that are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
If oyster sauce is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of sugar for sweetness.
Ensure the rice is cooled enough to handle but still warm enough to stick together slightly when forming the bundles.
Do not overcook the cabbage leaves; they should remain slightly crisp to provide texture contrast.
Serve with a side of mustard vinaigrette or a light soy-based dipping sauce for added flavor.
Leftover bundles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave.
