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–+ servings
Saffron Cod and Orzo

Saffron Cod and Orzo: A Cozy Dinner Adventure Awaits

Experience unique flavors with Saffron Cod and Orzo, a cozy and quick weeknight meal that impresses.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cod
  • 4 fillets Cod freshly thawed or frozen
  • 150 grams Guanciale can substitute with bacon or pancetta
For the Orzo
  • 200 grams Orzo can substitute with pearl couscous
  • 1 pinch Saffron use sparingly or substitute with turmeric
For the Aromatics
  • 1 whole Leek rinse well to avoid grit
  • 1 bulb Fennel use both bulb and stalks
  • 2 cloves Shallots finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
For Cooking and Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil high-quality
  • 2 tablespoons Butter adds creaminess
  • 1 whole Lemon fresh juice
For Garnish
  • 1 bunch Parsley or dill as an alternative
  • 1 cup Frizzled Leeks for garnish

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • deep saucepan
  • paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the leek by halving lengthwise and slicing into thin half-moons. Rinse well under cold water.
  2. Steep the saffron by mixing with two tablespoons of hot water for about 10 minutes.
  3. Make guanciale chili oil by cooking diced guanciale until crispy, then adding shallots, garlic, and red pepper.
  4. Cook cod and orzo by sautéing fennel and shallots, adding garlic, butter, orzo, and broth. Bring to a boil.
  5. Combine cod and orzo by placing seasoned fillets on top of orzo, drizzling saffron-infused water, and simmering.
  6. Frizzle the leeks in hot vegetable oil until golden and crispy.
  7. Serve by spooning orzo into bowls, topping with cod and frizzled leeks, and drizzling guanciale chili oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Thoroughly wash leeks to avoid gritty bits. Use saffron sparingly based on potency.

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