How to Make Miso Cod: Easy Miso Black Cod Recipe
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Jan 7, 2026 • 1 min read
Miso cod is a delicate, buttery dish served at many Japanese restaurants. With a little preparation, you can easily recreate this classic Japanese dish for your next weeknight dinner.
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What Is Miso Cod?
Miso-marinated black cod pairs the buttery, rich flavor of the fish with an umami-packed marinade made with mirin, a sweet Japanese rice wine, and sharp, aromatic sake. A blast of high heat in the final moments of cooking gives the dish its signature caramelized exterior.
What to Serve With Miso Cod
Serve miso cod with steamed rice, a selection of seasonal pickles (tsukemono), and simple steamed vegetables, like squash, broccolini, bok choy, or pea greens.
Miso Cod Recipe
makes
prep time
5 mintotal time
48 hr 15 mincook time
10 minIngredients
- 1
A few days prior to serving, prepare the miso marinade. First, combine the sake and mirin in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, and add the miso paste and the brown sugar, whisking until completely incorporated. Do not allow the sugar to scorch. Remove from the heat, and let cool.
- 2
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels, then place in a baking dish or shallow bowl. Cover with the marinade, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
- 3
When it’s time to cook, preheat the oven to the broiler setting. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 4 minutes, or until the bottom of the fish takes on a golden brown hue. Repeat on the other side.
- 4
Transfer the pan to the oven and finish under the broiler. Keep a close eye on the fish to ensure it doesn’t burn or overcook. Cook until the fish is tender and flakes easily.
- 5
Garnish with scallions, and drizzle very lightly with toasted sesame oil, if desired.
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