Larry’s Catch
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Larry's Catch | Feb 18, 2026

Poaching Black Cod

Learn how to poach black cod (sablefish) gently for silky texture, buttery tenderness, and delicate flavour using precise low-temperature cooking.

Servings 2 ppl
Cook 11 min
Difficulty Intermediate

Ingredients

  • Wild Black Cod (Sablefish)
  • Water, seafood stock, or light broth (for poaching liquid)
  • Sea salt
  • Fresh cracked black pepper
  • Optional: lemon slices
  • Optional: fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme)
  • Wide saucepan or shallow pan
  • Slotted spatula or fish spatula
  • Paper towels

Instructions

  1. Pat black cod fillets completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Add water, seafood stock, or a light broth to a wide pan.
  3. Heat liquid gently until it reaches a low simmer (not boiling).
  4. Lightly season fillets with salt and fresh cracked pepper.
  5. Place black cod into the liquid in a single layer.
  6. Poach gently for 8–10 minutes depending on thickness (about 8–10 minutes per inch guideline).
  7. Check for doneness — fish should be soft, flaky, and buttery.
  8. Remove when internal temperature reaches 120–125°F (49–52°C).
  9. Rest briefly; residual heat will finish cooking.
Source: https://larryscatch.com/blogs/recipes-3/poaching-black-cod
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