1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures easy cleanup and even heat distribution. Pat the 4 cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the ginger soy glaze adhere and crisp the edges. Lightly season both sides with a pinch of salt.

2-Second Step: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar. Stir vigorously for 30 seconds until smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust with optional red pepper flakes for heat. Divide the glaze: reserve half for basting and simmering later.

3-Third Step: Brush each cod fillet generously with half of the ginger soy glaze. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to avoid steaming. Drizzle a touch of neutral oil over the tops for extra shine. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The fish is ready when it turns opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For 6-oz fillets, start checking at 12 minutes; thicker pieces may need up to 18 minutes.

4-Fourth Step: Switch to broil on high for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the honey ginger glaze, creating a glossy, sticky top. Watch closely to prevent burning. Meanwhile, pour the reserved glaze into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy sauce.

5-Final Step: Remove the baked cod from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle with the thickened glaze, then sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. Serve hot with steamed rice, bok choy, or stir-fried vegetables. This simple oven baked cod recipe totals 25 minutes, yielding tender fish bursting with sweet-savory notes.