Introduction to Cod Mornay
Cod Mornay is a quintessentially British comfort food, combining tender, flaky cod fillets with a creamy, cheese-infused béchamel sauce. It’s a dish that exudes sophistication while remaining simple to prepare, making it a staple in many households. Delia Smith, a renowned culinary expert, has perfected this classic recipe with her signature touch of elegance and ease.
Why Choose Cod Mornay?
Cod Mornay is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the mild flavor of cod, making it a family-friendly dish. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Additionally, the recipe allows for flexibility—ingredients can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or availability.
Ingredients for Cod Mornay
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients. Delia Smith’s recipe emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results:
For the Fish
- 500g of fresh cod fillets (skinless and boneless)
- 1 cup of milk (whole or semi-skimmed)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 small onion, halved
- A few black peppercorns
- A pinch of salt
For the Mornay Sauce
- 50g of butter
- 50g of plain flour
- 500ml of reserved poaching liquid (from the cooked fish)
- 100g of grated mature cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Cod Mornay
Step 1: Poach the Cod
- Place the cod fillets in a large saucepan.
- Add the milk, bay leaf, halved onion, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.
- Gently heat the mixture until it reaches a simmer. Avoid boiling, as this can toughen the fish.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod fillets from the liquid and set them aside. Strain and reserve the poaching liquid for the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Mornay Sauce
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually add the reserved poaching liquid, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Place the poached cod fillets in an ovenproof dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the Mornay sauce over the fish, spreading it out to cover the fillets completely.
- Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Cod Mornay pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of fresh, crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the Mornay sauce.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf is an excellent choice for balancing the dish’s creaminess.
Tips for Perfecting Delia Smith’s Cod Mornay
1. Choose Fresh Cod
Fresh cod is the star of this dish, so ensure you purchase high-quality fillets. If fresh cod is unavailable, frozen fillets work well—just thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
2. Customize the Cheese
While mature cheddar is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mild blue cheese for a unique twist.
3. Avoid Overcooking the Fish
Cod is delicate and can become rubbery if overcooked. Stick to the recommended poaching time and avoid reheating the dish excessively.
4. Enhance the Flavor
Adding a splash of white wine to the poaching liquid or incorporating herbs like thyme or dill into the sauce can elevate the dish further.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Delia Smith’s Cod Mornay recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. It embodies the essence of traditional British cooking while offering a versatile canvas for personalization. The combination of tender poached cod and creamy cheese sauce is a comfort food that never fails to satisfy.
Conclusion
Cod Mornay, as perfected by Delia Smith, is a timeless dish that brings comfort and elegance to any table. Its rich, cheesy sauce paired with tender cod fillets makes it a favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. With this detailed guide, you’re equipped to recreate this classic recipe in your own kitchen.
