Molecular Gastronomy Cod Recipe

Molecular Gastronomy Cod Recipe

• 5g green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 1 lb (450g) fresh cod fillets, skin on
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine) or dry sherry
• 1/4 cup sake or dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (or gelatin)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

1. Prepare the Green Tea Rubs:
   • Combine the green tea leaves, sugar, and spices in a small bowl to create the green tea rubs. This mixture will be used to season the cod fillets.
2. Season the Cod Fillets:
   • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Rub the green tea rubs all over the fillets, pressing the rubs into the flesh to ensure they adhere well.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the water, soy sauce, mirin, and sake. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Agar-Agar Mixture:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the agar-agar powder with a little water to create a smooth paste. Add this paste to the simmering sauce and stir until the agar-agar is fully dissolved.
5. Marinate the Cod:
   • Place the seasoned cod fillets in a heatproof container. Pour the hot sauce over the cod. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the sauce sets into a jelly.
6. Prepare the Oil:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Spherification (Optional):
   • If you want to create caviar-like pearls, use a syringe or small spoon to drop small amounts of the cod jelly into the cooled oil. The jelly will form into small spheres as it sets.
8. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the cod from the refrigerator. If you made spheres, strain them from the oil and rinse gently. Arrange the cod fillets or spheres on a serving plate. Drizzle with a little oil and garnish with chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.
9. Serve Immediately:
   • Serve the Molecular Gastronomy Cod immediately, enjoying the tender, flavorful fish with the unique texture of the jelly and the subtle hint of green tea from the rubs.