Crispy Salt-and-Pepper Cod With Turmeric Noodles

Food52

Video Stats

Channel: Food52
Host: Food52
Published: Aug 12, 2025
Views: 6.8k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 2

Overview

This recipe for Crispy Salt-and-Pepper Cod with Turmeric Noodles is a wonderful exploration of Vietnamese flavors that feels both fresh and comforting. The cod is coated in a marinade that includes ginger, garlic, and a touch of chili, creating a flavorful crust when cooked. The use of turmeric in the noodles adds a beautiful golden hue and a subtle earthiness that complements the fish perfectly.

One of the standout aspects of this dish is the balance of textures. The crispy cod contrasts beautifully with the tender noodles, making each bite satisfying. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint not only brightens the dish but also adds layers of flavor that elevate the overall experience.

I appreciate how the recipe encourages flexibility, allowing you to adjust the spice levels and ingredients based on what you have on hand. This makes it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick yet impressive. The combination of flavors is reminiscent of a warm evening in Vietnam, making it a delightful escape right in your kitchen.

Overall, this dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a recipe I can see myself returning to time and again, especially when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
01:05

Combine chili, crushed garlic, water, lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar in a bowl.

02:15

Tip: Make your noac mom to taste, as everyone's fish sauce is slightly different.

2
02:29

Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

03:12

Tip: If you're not into spice, don't add a whole chili.

3
03:14

Create a marinade for the cod by mixing neutral oil, grated ginger, and pepper in a bowl.

04:42

Tip: Use a spoon to peel ginger instead of a peeler for easier peeling.

4
04:45

Cut the cod into chunks.

5
05:05

Mix the cod chunks with the marinade and season with salt.

6
05:28

Drop noodles into boiling water and stir with tongs.

05:55

Tip: Snip the noodles into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat.

7
06:02

Drain the noodles and lay them out on a plate.

8
06:30

Heat a non-stick pan and add a tablespoon of oil.

9
06:49

Cook the fish in batches, avoiding crowding the pan.

07:00

Tip: Don't crowd your pan when cooking the fish for even cooking.

08:03

Tip: Cook on lower heat with more oil to avoid burning garlic and ginger.

09:22

Tip: Layer the fish on top of the noodles for better presentation.

10
09:30

Add butter and turmeric to the pot used for noodles and heat.

10:25

Tip: Add scallions and dill towards the end of cooking to let them wilt.

11
10:29

Add scallions and dill to the pan and let them wilt.

12
10:41

Spoon the sauce over the fish.

13
10:51

Serve the dish with lime and a fistful of herbs.

11:01

Tip: Serve with a fistful of herbs between each bite for added flavor.

Ingredients

Serves: 2
Ginger2 tsp
Garlic3 cloves
Chili1
Fish Sauce2 tsp
Lime Juice2 tbsp
Sugar1 tbsp
Neutral Oil3 tbsp
Noodles200g
Dillto taste
Cilantroto taste
Mintto taste
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Fish

    → Substitution: Chicken or Tofu

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
30
per serving
Carbs
40
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Chaka Lavang is a traditional Vietnamese dish known for its unique combination of fish, turmeric, and dill.
  • Using a neutral oil like grapeseed helps achieve a crispy texture on the cod.
  • Grating ginger and garlic releases their essential oils, enhancing the dish's flavor.
  • Turmeric not only adds color but also offers health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.