Baked Cod with Fried Rice

Step 1

Cook brown rice: Pour 1/2 cups of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil.

Step 2

Rinse 1/4 cup of brown rice under cold running water.

Step 3

Once the water is boiling, add the washed rice to the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 4

Once the rice is cooked, set it aside for the next step.

Step 5

Note: Use a hot pan or wok to fry the rice, ensuring it cooks quickly and evenly without becoming mushy. Cooking on high heat helps achieve that characteristic "fried" texture.

Step 6

Prepare cod marinade: In a small bowl, combine the juice of half an orange or 1/8 cup of bottled orange juice with one teaspoon of balsamic vinegar.

Step 7

Note: For extra flavor, marinate the cod fillets in the orange juice and balsamic vinegar mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking. This will infuse the fish with delicious citrusy notes.

Step 8

Bake cod fillet: Begin by washing the cod fillet and patting it dry with a paper towel.

Step 9

Place the fillet in a shallow dish and season both sides with oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 10

Line the bottom of a glass baking dish with aluminum foil, then transfer the seasoned cod fillet into the dish.

Step 11

Drizzle the prepared orange marinade over the fillet.

Step 12

Top the fillet with butter slices.

Step 13

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until the fillets are golden brown.

Step 14

After approximately 20 minutes, remove the cover from the baking dish and allow the cod to finish baking for the final 10 minutes uncovered.

Step 15

Note: Be careful not to overcook the cod fillet, which can become dry and tough. Bake just until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 16

Prepare fried rice: Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned wok to fry the rice to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 17

Heat 1 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan on medium heat. Add the carrots and cook until warmed through.

Step 18

Follow by adding frozen peas to the pan and cook until heated.

Step 19

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan.

Step 20

In a separate bowl, beat one egg, then pour it into the empty side of the pan.

Step 21

Stir with a wooden spoon, cooking until the egg is scrambled.

Step 22

Combine the scrambled egg with the vegetables using a wooden spoon.

Step 23

Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix everything thoroughly.

Step 24

Remove from heat and stir in approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, ensuring even distribution. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, considering soy sauce is salty.

Step 25

For added freshness and color, garnish the baked cod and fried rice with fresh herbs, such as chopped green onions or cilantro. Serve the dishes hot and enjoy!