Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs cod fillets
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cod fillets and pat each fillet bone-dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp smoked paprika.
  3. Gently press each fillet into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess to ensure a thin coating.
  4. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  5. Place the fillets in the pan, leaving space between them; cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until a mahogany-colored crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Lower the heat to medium and add 4 tbsp unsalted butter and 2 cloves minced garlic to the pan.
  7. Once the butter foams, stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice and spoon the bubbling mixture over the fish for 1 minute.
  8. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley just before removing from heat.