Introduction
Peru takes fish seriously. Not because it’s complicated, but because fresh fish, bright citrus, chilli, and herbs already do most of the work. Inspired by the flavours of Peru’s famous coastal cooking, these cod bites combine lime, garlic, coriander, and aji- style chilli heat to create something fresh, punchy, and ridiculously easy to demolish. The air fryer gives the fish beautiful golden edges while keeping the inside soft and flaky. Bright. Zesty. Proper South American flavour.
You’ll Need
500g cod fillets, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 2 limes
Zest of 1 lime
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 red chilli, finely chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
Small handful fresh coriander, chopped
For the Aji Mayo
4 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp chilli paste
1 tsp lime juice
Pinch of salt
Optional but Dangerous
Avocado slices
Sweetcorn salsa
Steamed rice
Extra chilli
Method
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
In a bowl combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chilli, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and half the coriander.
Add the cod pieces and coat thoroughly.
Allow to marinate for 10–15 minutes if possible.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Arrange the cod in a single layer.
Air fry at 200°C for 8–10 minutes, shaking gently halfway through, until lightly golden and cooked through.
While the fish cooks, mix together the mayonnaise, chilli paste, lime juice, and salt.
Allow the fish to rest for 1 minute before serving.
Finish with the remaining coriander.
Serve immediately with the aji mayo, avocado, rice, or sweetcorn salsa if using.