Cod with creamed peas is a very traditional combination the addition of some leeks and bacon adds some tasty extra layers of flavour. This is an attractive looking dish that will be great for entertaining friends, or treating the family with a delicious supper. It takes about 30 minutes to prep and cook. The quantities below will feed four. It is easy to scale up or down for more or less people at your table. We have selected cod however this could be changed for other firm white fish such as hake or haddock if you prefer.
Ingredients For Cod With Creamed Peas
4 chunky cod fillets (skin on) from Walter Purkis & Sons. About 250g each.
200g peas
150g butter
8 rashers streaky bacon rind removed and chopped into small slices
1 medium sized leek washed and chopped
250ml double cream
Oil for frying
Chunky sea salt and fresh ground pepper for seasoning
Cooking Method For Cod With Creamed Peas
Start with the peas, boil in a a pan of salted water until just tender. Drain and put to one side, keep warm.
In a large pan with a solid base melt half of the butter over a low heat. Add the chopped leek and bacon stir to coat in the butter. Cover the pan with a lid. Cook until the leek is soft, stir so the ingredients are not browning. Lightly crush or chop the peas then add to the pan along with the cream. Season well. NB there may well be plenty of salt from the bacon so taste first before adding more. Allow the mixture to bubble gently for a few minute so that it thickens and the flavours combine.
While that is happening heat some oil in a pan ready to fry the cod. It should be hot but not smoking. Dry the outside of the fish with some kitchen towel, this will help to prevent the fish sticking. Season well. Place the cod skin side down cook for about 3 or 4 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Add the remaining butter to the pan and turn the fish over to finish cooking the fillets through. NB Thicker cod fillets will need longer than thin.
To serve divide the creamed peas equally onto warmed plates. Place the fillets on top skin side up. Serve right away.
If you would more cod cooking inspiration or recipes check these recipes on our blog >>
