Ina Garten Says This Is The Best Cut Of Fish For Baked Cod

Cod is a white, flaky fish with a delightfully mild flavor. According to Safe Beat, the most common cod fish species are Atlantic and Pacific cod. It is low in fat, calories, and carbohydrates and contains only 90 calories per serving (via the U.S. FDA). According to Very Well Fit, cod is also a low-to-moderate mercury-containing fish. This means it's safe to eat in moderation; however, pregnant and nursing women should practice caution when eating some fish (via another Very Well Fit article).

Cod's firm and flaky texture make it the ideal fish for tacos and fish sticks. It pairs well with various seasonings and retains its sturdy shape (via Food Network). The fish can be grilled, steamed, fried, and baked, and it tastes great in curries, baked into pies, and used to make fish cakes.

Ina Garten recommends a particular cod cut for her baked fish recipe. This cut of fish creates the most delicious, flavorful dish. Here's what you need to know:

Boneless, skinless cod fillets are what it takes to her make Baked Cod with Garlic and Herb Ritz Crumbs recipe, according to The Barefoot Contessa. The dish is best served with the pan's juices and lemon wedges for a mouthwateringly satisfying meal. Ina Garten explains in her Food Network YouTube video that cod is a meaty fish. Using center-cut filets is best to get that evenly-cooking fish you crave. She says the edges of the fish are thin, so they cook unevenly. Garten brushes the bottom and tops of the filet with olive oil, salt, and pepper and pops it into the oven for ten minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The olive oil helps the cod brown to a golden, crispy outer layer. She explains that cod doesn't flake much, so the fish's substance is ideal for baking.

Cod is an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that provide abundant health benefits (via Web MD). This fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower bad cholesterol (triglycerides) in the body, help lower blood pressure, and assist with healthy brain functioning. So, next time you're craving fish, reach for center-cut cod — it is the Barefoot Contessa's choice for baking fish.