Baked Cod with Mashed Potatoes and Steamed Carrots

Ingredients

• Cod fillet 6 oz
• Russet potatoes 1.5 cups
• Carrots 1 cup
• Butter 1 tbsp
• Olive oil 1 tbsp

Method

1. Prepare the potatoes. Peel about 2 medium russet potatoes (to yield 1.5 cups mashed) and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Test by piercing with a fork; it should slide in easily.
   Tip: Cutting potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
2. Preheat the oven and prepare cod. While potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillet dry with paper towels. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fillet and season with salt and pepper if desired.
   Tip: Drying the fish helps it bake evenly and prevents sogginess.
3. Bake the cod. Put the baking sheet with the cod into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
   Tip: Check the thickest part of the fillet for doneness.
4. Steam the carrots. While the cod bakes, peel and slice carrots into 1/4-inch thick pieces to steam evenly. Use a steamer basket over boiling water or a microwave-safe dish with a little water covered with a lid or plastic wrap. Steam for about 7-10 minutes until tender but still slightly firm.
   Tip: Avoid over-steaming to keep carrots vibrant and slightly crisp.
5. Mash the potatoes. When potatoes are tender, drain them well and return to the pot or a bowl. Add the butter and mash using a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk or cream if desired for extra creaminess, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
   Tip: Warm butter and milk slightly before adding to keep potatoes hot.
6. Plate and serve. Arrange the baked cod fillet on a plate alongside the creamy mashed potatoes and steamed carrots. Optionally, drizzle a little olive oil or a squeeze of lemon over the fish for extra flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
   Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if available for a fresh touch.

Pro tips

• Use a fork to gently flake the cod to check doneness without breaking it apart.
• For extra flavor, add a clove of garlic or some herbs to the mashed potatoes while mashing.