Cod in ALDI and Tried Cod in Air Fryer

🐟 Buying Cod at ALDI

ALDI is known for offering affordable, good-quality frozen seafood, including cod.

What to look for:

• Frozen Atlantic Cod Fillets (often skinless, boneless)

• Usually sold in resealable bags (around 1–1.5 lbs total)

• Individually quick frozen (IQF) — easy to take out just what you need

• Often labeled as “wild-caught” or “sustainably sourced” (check packaging)

• Price: Typically around $7–$10 per bag, making it a budget-friendly protein

Tip: Check for thick, uniform fillets if possible — they cook more evenly in the air fryer.

🔥 Air Fryer Cod — Simple & Crispy Method

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (thawed if frozen)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• Seasonings: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, lemon pepper, or Old Bay

• Optional: lemon wedges, fresh parsley, tartar sauce

Instructions:

1. Prep cod: Pat fillets very dry with paper towels (key for crispy edges).

2. Season: Brush lightly with oil, then sprinkle seasoning on both sides.

3. Air fry:

   • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if your model recommends it.

   • Place fillets in basket without overcrowding.

   • Cook 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness (cod is done when opaque, flakes easily, internal temp 145°F/63°C).

   • No need to flip halfway unless fillets are very thick.

4. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

✨ Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Cod

• Lemon-Herb: Top with lemon slices before cooking, finish with fresh dill.

• Parmesan Crust: Mix grated Parmesan + breadcrumbs + a little mayo or butter as a topping.

• Spicy Cajun: Coat with Cajun seasoning before air frying.

• Asian-Style: Brush with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a little honey before cooking.

✅ Why Air Fryer Cod Works Well

• Fast: Cooks in about 10 minutes

• Crispy exterior, moist interior without deep frying

• Easy cleanup (especially with parchment liners)

• Healthy: Uses little to no added oil

⚠️ Important Tips

1. Don’t overcook — cod dries out quickly. Check early.

2. Thaw frozen cod in fridge overnight for even cooking (or use cold water method in sealed bag).

3. Spritz lightly with oil for extra crispiness, but don’t soak.

4. If using frozen fillets directly, add 2–4 minutes to cook time, but thawing is recommended for best texture.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Easy meals: Fish tacos, rice bowls, with roasted veggies, or over a salad.

• Sides: Air fryer sweet potato fries, steamed broccoli, quinoa, or couscous.

• Sauces: Lemon-dill yogurt, tartar sauce, or a simple garlic aioli.

Have you already tried making ALDI cod in your air fryer? If so — how did it turn out? 🎣
If you’re planning to try it, which seasoning style are you leaning toward? 😊