Nobu-Style Black Cod with Miso: A Cozy, Elegant Dinner You Can Make at Home
Nobu-Style Black Cod with Miso: A Cozy, Elegant Dinner You Can Make at Home
Some recipes feel like they belong behind the gleaming doors of a five-star kitchen—until you try them in your own. Nobu-style Black Cod with Miso, the signature dish made famous by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, is one of those rare culinary gems: indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to recreate.
When paired with garlicky grilled bok choy and a bowl of fluffy rice, this dish becomes a soothing, light dinner that feels both nourishing and luxurious.
What Is Nobu-Style Black Cod with Miso?
Served at the globally renowned Nobu restaurants—frequented by Hollywood stars—this dish brings together silky black cod (a tender, buttery white fish) and a sweet-savory marinade made with white miso. As the fish roasts, the exterior caramelizes beautifully, while the inside stays moist and delicate.
Despite its upscale presentation, the preparation is surprisingly simple. The only secret? Planning ahead so the marinade has time to work its magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Black Cod:
- 2 black cod fillets (fresh cod or butterfish also work beautifully)
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste
- 3 tablespoons sake
- 3 tablespoons mirin
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Grilled Bok Choy:
- 2 bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- Steamed Japanese rice
- Thinly sliced scallions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Marinade
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine:
- White miso paste
- Sake
- Mirin
- Sugar
Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Then let the marinade cool.
2. Marinate the Fish
- Pat the cod fillets dry.
- Coat generously with the cooled marinade.
- Place in a sealed container and refrigerate for 12 to 48 hours.
The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor.
3. Cook the Cod
- Gently wipe off excess marinade (to avoid burning).
- Grill, broil, bake, or air-fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and just caramelized.
Watch closely: The sugar can brown quickly.
4. Grill the Bok Choy
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced garlic and sauté until just golden.
- Place bok choy cut-side down and cook until seared and tender.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Plate the cod alongside the bok choy.
- Add a scoop of steamed rice if desired.
- Finish with fresh scallions for brightness.
Lari’s Cozy Tip
For a lighter, low-carb twist, skip the rice and lean into the bok choy. It’s clean, comforting, and perfect for nights when you want something warm but not heavy.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, Nobu-style Black Cod with Miso is a beautiful reminder that a little preparation goes a long way. It’s unfussy but impressive, elegant but simple—ideal for cozy nights in when you want to feel a bit spoiled.
This is the kind of dish you’ll come back to often. And once you’ve made it once, you’ll wonder why you ever thought it was complicated.
Craving more cozy recipes with elevated simplicity?
Keep an eye on our Comfort Recipes archive for more weeknight dinners.
