Dinner

Savory Thai Coconut Lime Poached Cod in Just 25 Minutes Recipe

Name: Savory Thai Coconut Lime Poached Cod in Just 25 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 can Coconut Milk (can substitute with light coconut milk); 1 cup Chicken Broth (can substitute with vegetable broth); 1 tbsp Fish Sauce (adjust for less saltiness if desired); 3 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (can replace with lemon juice); 1 tbsp Grated Ginger (fresh preferred, powdered can be used); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (garlic powder can substitute); 2 pcs Sliced Chilies (optional for heat); 1 tbsp Brown Sugar (honey or maple syrup can be alternatives); 1 tbsp Lime Zest (can replace with lemon zest); 4 fillets Cod Fillets (substitute with other firm white fish if desired); 4 cups Fresh Spinach Leaves (kale or Swiss chard can be used); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (garnish, parsley can be substituted)

ByLana Polati April 12, 2026April 12, 2026

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Introduction

This Savory Thai Coconut Lime Poached Cod is a vibrant and fragrant dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. Tender cod fillets are gently poached in a flavorful broth of coconut milk, lime, and aromatic spices, making it a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.

A close-up view of a thick, white fish fillet placed in the center of a shallow white bowl filled with a rich, orange-yellow sauce. The fish is garnished with bright green cilantro leaves and small, shiny red chili flakes scattered on top. Part of a green lime wedge is visible behind the fish, resting on the sauce. The sauce looks smooth and slightly oily, with a few floating bits of herbs. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can Coconut Milk (can substitute with light coconut milk)
1 cup Chicken Broth (can substitute with vegetable broth)
1 tbsp Fish Sauce (adjust for less saltiness if desired)
3 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (can replace with lemon juice)
1 tbsp Grated Ginger (fresh preferred, powdered can be used)
2 cloves Minced Garlic (garlic powder can substitute)
2 pcs Sliced Chilies (optional for heat)
1 tbsp Brown Sugar (honey or maple syrup can be alternatives)
1 tbsp Lime Zest (can replace with lemon zest)
4 fillets Cod Fillets (substitute with other firm white fish if desired)
4 cups Fresh Spinach Leaves (kale or Swiss chard can be used)
1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (garnish, parsley can be substituted)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, combine coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, fresh lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, sliced chilies, brown sugar, and lime zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 2: Carefully add the cod fillets to the simmering broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and poach for 8-10 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and allow them to wilt in the broth.
Step 4: Gently transfer the poached cod and spinach to serving plates. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the sliced chilies. You can also use lemon juice and zest instead of lime for a slightly different citrus note.
Substitute cod with other firm white fish such as halibut, haddock, or sea bass.
Add a splash of coconut aminos or soy sauce for an extra umami boost.
Serve with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up the flavorful broth.

Storage

Store any leftover poached cod and broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the fish. It’s best served fresh but can be warmed carefully for quick meals.

How to Serve

A thick white piece of fish sits in the middle of a white bowl filled with a golden-yellow sauce. The fish is topped with bright green cilantro leaves and small pieces of red chili flakes. A small green lime wedge rests near the fish, partly on the sauce. The surface under the bowl has a white marbled texture, adding a clean, bright background to the rich colors of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod fillets work well. Thaw them completely and pat dry before poaching to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for fish sauce if I’m vegetarian or don’t have it on hand?

You can use soy sauce or tamari as a vegetarian substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Adjust to taste and reduce added salt accordingly.