Easy Caribbean cod fish dinner with flaky cod in a spicy coconut tomato sauce. A one-pan, weeknight comfort food packed with Afro-Caribbean flavor!

Growing up in the Caribbean, fish stew was a staple at our family table . From an early age, my mother taught me how to prepare a flavorful pot of stew, layering spices, herbs, and fresh catch of the day. Those lessons stayed with me, and today I used the same precepts to create this Easy Caribbean Cod Fish Dinner – a quick, weeknight go-to that captures the bold Afro-Caribbean flavors I grew up on.

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when comforting home-style cooking meets vibrant Caribbean flavors. The splash of white wine in the stew elevates the dish, adding depth and a gourmet touch that makes every bite memorable. This Caribbean cod fish dinner captures that balance perfectly: flaky cod fillets are seared until golden, then gently simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Each forkful delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth cod layered with the warmth of allspice, the earthiness of thyme, and a subtle kick of chili. It’s the best of both worlds – hearty and comforting like a traditional fish stew, yet bright, bold, and full of island soul.

In this recipe I’ll share how to create a one-pan Caribbean cod fish dinner that’s weeknight-friendly and sure to impress. Imagine the kitchen filling with the savory scent of onions, garlic, and scallions sautéing in spiced oil, mingling with creamy coconut and fresh herbs – it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. As a longtime lover of Caribbean cooking, this dish combines the nostalgia of my favorite comfort foods with the taste of a tropical getaway, all in under an hour. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Caribbean Cod Fish Dinner

• A Flavorful Twist on Caribbean Fish Stew: Inspired by the traditional fish stews I grew up on, this recipe gives you all the warmth of an authentic Caribbean fish stew but with the ease of using tender cod fillets. It’s a perfect balance of home-style comfort and island flavor.

• Quick and Weeknight-Friendly: This is a true one-pan Caribbean cod fish dinner. From searing the fish to simmering the coconut sauce, everything comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still crave something bold and satisfying.

• Flaky Cod in Creamy Coconut Tomato Sauce: The cod fillets are first pan-seared until golden, then gently simmered in a spicy coconut tomato sauce that’s creamy, rich, and layered with flavor. The sauce clings to every bite of fish, creating a dinner that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

• Packed with Afro-Caribbean Spices and Fresh Herbs: Seasoned with thyme, scallions, pimento (allspice), and a touch of chili heat, this dish bursts with Afro-Caribbean flavor. Sweet bell peppers and fresh herbs round it out, making each bite vibrant, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Substitutions & Variations

• Tomatoes: If you don’t have cherry tomatoes on hand, you can substitute with 1 large regular tomato (diced) or ½ can of diced tomatoes (drained) . Both will give the sauce a rich tomato flavor – just simmer a bit longer to break them down.

• Fish Options: Cod works beautifully here because it’s mild and flaky, but you can easily swap it for other firm white fish such as snapper or tilapia fillet . If you prefer a richer flavor, salmon fillets also work, though the taste will be more pronounced.

• Spice Level: The recipe uses red pepper flakes for moderate heat. For an authentic Caribbean kick, you can add a whole Scotch bonnet pepper to the sauce while it simmers (remove before serving). For a milder version, reduce the flakes or omit them.

• Creaminess: Full-fat coconut milk makes the sauce rich and silky. If you don't have coconut milk use heavy cream instead.

Tiffany’s Pro Tip: Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this delicious cod stew, you’ll be happy to know it keeps well (and some say it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld! ). Here’s how I store it to maintain quality and food safety:

• Refrigerate Promptly: Let the stew cool slightly, then transfer the fish and sauce to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. According to food safety guidelines, cooked fish stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge .

• Reheat Gently: To reheat, warm the stew in a saucepan over low heat just until the cod is heated through. Avoid boiling, as that can make the fish rubbery. You can also microwave it on medium power in short bursts. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened in the fridge.

• Freezing Option: Yes, you can freeze this stew! If you want to save it longer, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Cooked fish can be frozen for 4–6 months .

If you try it, leave a comment below or tag @foodienotachef on Instagram so I can see your creations!

Prefer to watch instead of reading this delicious recipe? check out this video for a quick and easy guide: