Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl – Creamy Red Curry Gluten-Free Dinner

Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl is a rich, aromatic, and comforting meal that features tender poached cod in a creamy red curry coconut broth, served over soft udon noodles with fresh vegetables. This easy Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen in just 45 minutes. A fragrant broth made with coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, garlic, and lime juice envelopes udon noodles while shiitake mushrooms, julienned carrots, and baby spinach add freshness and texture. The cod fillets are gently poached until flaky and tender, making each bite satisfying and light. Ideal for gluten-free and flavorful weeknight dinners, this Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl is aromatic, creamy, and full of wholesome goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about a steaming bowl of curry noodles. The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and fresh aromatics creates a fragrant, silky broth that feels luxurious yet nourishing. Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl elevates this concept by incorporating delicate cod fillets, soft udon noodles, and crisp-tender vegetables, resulting in a balanced, flavorful meal.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Each element is thoughtfully prepared: the broth is aromatic and slightly spicy, the cod is poached gently to maintain its tender texture, and the noodles soak up the rich flavors. Fresh herbs and lime juice add brightness, balancing the creaminess of the coconut milk.

Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired comfort food or a gluten-free noodle soup packed with protein and vegetables, this Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl delivers satisfying depth and vibrant flavor in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: Rich coconut curry broth infused with ginger, garlic, and red curry paste.
• Tender Poached Cod: Flaky, delicate fish cooked gently in the broth.
• Fresh Vegetables: Baby spinach, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms add crunch and color.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner: Ready in just 45 minutes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free when using appropriate udon noodles.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust red chili for desired spiciness.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 bowl

Cod and Broth

• 4 cod fillets (about 5.3 oz each), skinless and boneless
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or sunflower)
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1¾ cups coconut milk
• 2 cups fish or vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Juice of 1 lime

Noodles and Vegetables

• 10.6 oz fresh udon noodles
• 5.3 oz baby spinach
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3.5 oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or pot
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater for ginger and zest
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Strainer for noodles
• Ladle

Optional:

• Chili knife for fine slicing
• Fish spatula for handling cod

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Aromatics
   Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chili (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Curry Paste
   Add 1 tablespoon red curry paste to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release flavors.
3. Create Broth
   Pour in 1¾ cups coconut milk and 2 cups fish or vegetable stock. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Season Broth
   Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Poach Cod
   Carefully slide cod fillets into the simmering broth. Cover and poach gently for 6 to 8 minutes, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Cook Noodles
   Meanwhile, cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and divide among 4 serving bowls.
7. Add Vegetables
   Add baby spinach, julienned carrots, and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the broth. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are just tender.
8. Assemble Bowls
   Remove poached cod fillets from the broth and set aside. Ladle hot broth and vegetables evenly over noodles in each bowl.
9. Finish and Serve
   Top each bowl with a poached cod fillet. Garnish with sliced spring onions and fresh coriander leaves. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy Variation: Add more red chili or chili flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace cod with tofu or tempeh.
• Fish Substitution: White fish such as halibut or tilapia works well.
• Noodle Options: Use rice noodles or soba noodles for a different texture.
• Vegetable Swap: Include bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers if desired.

Flavor Profile

This Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl is creamy, aromatic, and lightly spiced. The coconut milk gives a silky richness, while red curry paste adds depth and gentle heat. Lime juice brightens the broth, balancing the richness, and fresh herbs add an herbal note. Cod is tender and flaky, complementing the soft noodles and crisp-tender vegetables. Each spoonful delivers a complex balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g

Gluten-free, protein-rich, and satisfying as a wholesome dinner option.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare broth base ahead and store in the refrigerator up to 2 days.
• Slice vegetables in advance for faster assembly.
• Cook noodles just before serving for best texture.
• Poach cod fresh to preserve tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before poaching.

How do I prevent overcooked cod?
Simmer gently and check for flakiness after 6 minutes.

Can I use canned coconut milk?
Yes, full-fat canned coconut milk works best for richness.

Is this dish spicy?
Mild by default; adjust chili slices for desired heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	30 minutes	45 minutes	4 servings

Serving Suggestions

Serve in deep bowls with fresh coriander on top. Include lime wedges for extra brightness. Let each diner stir slightly to mix noodles, vegetables, and broth for optimal flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers or baby corn.
2. Herb-Intense: Increase fresh coriander for a fragrant finish.
3. Spicy Coconut: Add more red chili or a dash of chili oil.
4. Noodle Swap: Use rice or soba noodles for a different texture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cod

Choose fresh, firm cod fillets for optimal poaching. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Red Curry Paste

Key to authentic flavor. Sauté briefly with aromatics to release fragrance. Adjust amount for mild or spicy broth.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Gently slide cod into simmering broth to avoid breaking fillets.
• Do not overcook vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp.
• Simmer broth gently for even flavor development.
• Taste broth before adding fish to balance saltiness and acidity.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers up to 2 days.
• Noodles and cod are best stored separately from broth to preserve texture.
• Not recommended for freezing due to delicate cod and noodle texture.
• Reheat gently over low heat, adding extra broth if needed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	30g
Carbs	38g
Fat	25g
Fiber	4g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, dairy-free, protein-rich, moderate fat.

Expanded Conclusion

Coconut Cod Noodle Bowl is a luxurious yet approachable Asian-inspired dinner. Creamy coconut curry broth, tender cod, soft noodles, and fresh vegetables create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. This dish is ideal for anyone seeking a gluten-free, protein-rich, and comforting meal that feels vibrant and wholesome.

Make this recipe a regular in your dinner rotation for an easy, satisfying, and flavorful weeknight or weekend meal. Its combination of richness, freshness, and subtle spice ensures every bowl is both comforting and exciting.

Print