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Saffron Cod and Orzo

Saffron Cod and Orzo: A Gourmet Delight at Home

Enjoy a gourmet experience with Saffron Cod and Orzo, combining flaky cod and tender orzo for a flavorful dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Cod
  • 4 fillets Cod Fresh or properly thawed frozen cod
  • 1 pinch Saffron Lightly crushed
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pearl couscous can be substituted
For the Guanciale Chili Oil
  • 4 ounces Guanciale Can substitute with pancetta or bacon
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Oil Adjust to taste depending on spice tolerance
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Leek Rinsed thoroughly
  • 1 bulb Fennel Include bulb and stalks
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 medium Shallots Sliced
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Roughly chopped
  • 1 whole Lemon For squeezing juice
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Small frying pan
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preparing the leeks. Halve them lengthwise, then slice thinly. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Combine crushed saffron with hot water in a bowl and steep for 10 minutes.
  3. In a medium pot, cook chopped guanciale over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes, sauté for 2 minutes.
  4. Add sliced fennel, stir, then pour in orzo and water/stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook for 10-12 minutes. Lay cod fillets on top, drizzle with saffron mixture, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry leeks for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Transfer to paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
  6. To serve, scoop orzo onto plates, top with cod, frizzled leeks, guanciale chili oil, lemon juice, and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and quality. Adjust seasoning as needed.

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