How to Make Miso Cod: Easy Miso Black Cod Recipe
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Jan 7, 2026 • 1 min read
Miso cod is a delicate, buttery dish served at many Japanese restaurants. With a little preparation, you can easily recreate this classic Japanese dish for your next weeknight dinner.
Learn From the Best
What Is Miso Cod?
Miso-marinated black cod pairs the buttery, rich flavor of the fish with an umami-packed marinade made with mirin, a sweet Japanese rice wine, and sharp, aromatic sake. A blast of high heat in the final moments of cooking gives the dish its signature caramelized exterior.
What to Serve With Miso Cod
Serve miso cod with steamed rice, a selection of seasonal pickles (tsukemono), and simple steamed vegetables, like squash, broccolini, bok choy, or pea greens.
Miso Cod Recipe
makes
prep time
5 mintotal time
48 hr 15 mincook time
10 minIngredients
- 1
A few days prior to serving, prepare the miso marinade. First, combine the sake and mirin in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, and add the miso paste and the brown sugar, whisking until completely incorporated. Do not allow the sugar to scorch. Remove from the heat, and let cool.
- 2
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels, then place in a baking dish or shallow bowl. Cover with the marinade, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
- 3
When it’s time to cook, preheat the oven to the broiler setting. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 4 minutes, or until the bottom of the fish takes on a golden brown hue. Repeat on the other side.
- 4
Transfer the pan to the oven and finish under the broiler. Keep a close eye on the fish to ensure it doesn’t burn or overcook. Cook until the fish is tender and flakes easily.
- 5
Garnish with scallions, and drizzle very lightly with toasted sesame oil, if desired.
Become a better chef with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by culinary masters, including Niki Nakayama, Gabriela Cámara, Chef Thomas Keller, Massimo Bottura, Dominique Ansel, Gordon Ramsay, Alice Waters, and more.
Miso Salmon Recipe: How to Make Miso-Glazed Salmon
Mar 9, 2021
Authentic Japanese Miso Soup Recipe: How to Make Easy Miso Soup
Oct 25, 2019
Easy Lemon Cod Recipe: How to Make Lemon Cod at Home
Apr 6, 2022
How to Make Vegan Miso Soup: Easy Vegan Miso Soup Recipe
Sep 13, 2021
All About White Miso: 4 Ways to Use White Miso in Your Cooking
Mar 15, 2021
Easy Chawanmushi Recipe: 4 Tips for Making Chawanmushi
Feb 26, 2021
Other articles
How to Make Baked Cod: Quick and Easy Baked Cod Recipe
Jul 14, 2020
Chicken Bulgogi Recipe: How to Make Chicken Bulgogi
Nov 30, 2021
Saba Shioyaki Recipe: How to Make Japanese Grilled Mackerel
Apr 6, 2021
Chicken Soboro Recipe: Tips for Making a Chicken and Egg Bowl
Apr 16, 2021
Unagi Don Recipe: A Look Inside Unadon Preparation
Apr 20, 2021
Fukujinzuke Recipe: 3 Foods to Pair With the Tangy Relish
May 4, 2021
