The first time I tasted miso black cod at a Japanese restaurant, I was convinced it couldn’t be replicated at home. The silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep caramelized glaze seemed impossible without a chef’s touch. After countless air fryer experiments, I finally discovered the perfect balance of heat, timing, and marination that delivers the same restaurant-quality results right in my kitchen. This Air Fryer Miso Black Cod turns out buttery, golden, and flaking beautifully in just 10 minutes — the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel effortlessly elegant.
Why This Air Fryer Miso Black Cod Recipe Works
The secret lies in the marinade. White miso paste, mirin, sake, and sugar create a sweet-salty umami glaze that penetrates deep into the fish. A long marination time infuses flavor, while the air fryer’s rapid heat perfectly caramelizes the surface without drying the delicate cod. The result is a silky interior and golden-brown exterior that rivals the famous Nobu dish — all without turning on the oven.
Air Fryer Miso Black Cod
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Parchment paper or oil spray
- Tongs
Ingredients
2 black cod fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on preferred)
3 tbsp white miso paste
2 tbsp mirin
1 tbsp sake
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp soy sauce (optional for depth)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional for aroma)
Oil spray for air fryer basket
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.
Pat cod fillets dry and coat evenly with the miso marinade.
Place in a resealable bag or covered container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours (up to 48 hours).
When ready to cook, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly oil or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
Gently wipe excess marinade from fish (to prevent burning) and place fillets skin-side down in the basket.
Air fry for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the top caramelizes and the fish flakes easily.
Carefully remove and let rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger if desired.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary; adjust time as needed.
- Wipe off excess miso before cooking to prevent burning.
- Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Store leftovers up to 2 days; reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- For a richer flavor, extend marination to 48 hours.
Nutrition
Conclusion
This air fryer method transforms miso black cod into a quick, elegant meal with buttery texture and rich umami flavor. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine Japanese restaurant — all from your air fryer.
