How To Cook Cod Cheeks Pan Fried In Butter Recipe By Jamie Bridgett Representing Cheshire During The 2010 North West Young Chef Final

PAN FRIED COD

Steps:

• Pat the cod fillets very dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Heat the oil a 10-inch or similar cast-iron or heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shiny (but not yet smoking), gently lower the fish into the oil, moving away from your body with your motion in case the oil splatters. Lower the heat to medium.
• Let the fish cook undisturbed on the first side for 2 to 3 minutes, until the underside is nicely golden.
• Gently flip the cod over. A flexible, thin metal spatula (such as a fish spatula) works best. The cod might stick a bit at first, but work gently and firmly and you'll get it. Place the butter in the pan. With a spoon, spread the pat around the fish. Tilt the pan away from you so that the butter pools, then baste the fish with the butter a few times.
• Continue cooking on the other side until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches 145 degrees F on an instant read thermometer, about 2 additional minutes.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs and squeeze the lemon over the top. Enjoy immediately, with an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.

PAN-FRIED COD WITH CHAMP

Steps:

• Cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling water until tender, about 10-15 mins. Meanwhile, chop the spring onions, separating the green part from the white.
• Lay the cod on a piece of kitchen paper to remove any excess moisture. Heat a frying pan to a high heat, add the oil, then the fish, skin side down. Don't move the pan or even shake it as this will tear the skin. Cook for 4-5 mins until the edges start to colour. Turn the fish over and cook for a further 3-4 mins.
• Bring the cream and milk to the boil in a pan with the butter, then add the chopped white part of the onions, simmer for a few minutes, then season, if you want to. Mash the potatoes and mix in the hot cream and milk and half the chopped green part of the spring onions. Sprinkle the rest over the mash. Serve with the fish, pouring over any pan juices.