Blackened Fish Tacos

Buttery fish fillets encrusted with a perfect balance of herbs and spices star in these Blackened Fish Tacos. Wrapped in warm corn tortillas and topped with shredded cabbage, these tacos burst with flavor in every bite. They are perfect for casual dinners, weekend gatherings, or even taco night celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices makes each bite of blackened fish irresistible.
• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos on their own or pair them with sides like rice or beans for a complete meal.
• Customizable Toppings: You can easily adjust toppings based on personal preference, making it fun for everyone at the table.
• Healthier Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these tacos provide a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents the fish from sticking, ensuring a clean flip and easy cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively and keeping your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending sauces smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Chipotle-Lime Sauce

• ½ lime (juiced)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (chopped)
• ½ cup cilantro (chopped)

For the Blackened Fish Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Fish Tacos

• 1 stick (½ cup unsalted butter, melted)
• 2 lbs white fish (cut into 1-inch thick fillets)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Corn tortillas (warmed (or flour tortillas))

For Garnish

• Shredded purple cabbage
• Fresh cilantro (lightly chopped)
• Cotija cheese (crumbled)
• Lime wedges

this recipe

How to Make Blackened Fish Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle-Lime Sauce

Combine all sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl. Use the whisk to blend until smooth. Set aside to let flavors meld.

Step 2: Make the Blackened Seasoning

In a separate bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Fish Fillets

Brush both sides of each fish fillet with melted butter. Then sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over the fillets.

Step 4: Cook the Fish

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add fish fillets. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and have a nice crust.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with blackened fish, then top with shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, crumbled Cotija cheese, and drizzle with chipotle-lime sauce. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Blackened Fish Tacos as an exciting twist on your dinner routine!

How to Serve Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened Fish Tacos are not just delicious; they can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some great serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Shredded Cabbage: Adds a crunchy texture that complements the tender fish.
• Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbled cheese adds a creamy, salty touch.

Pair with Sauces

• Chipotle-Lime Sauce: Drizzle this creamy sauce for a smoky kick.
• Salsa Verde: A tangy verde salsa can brighten the dish and add zest.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with blackened fish for added richness.

Serve with Sides

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime enhances all the flavors in your tacos.
• Pickled Red Onions: Their tanginess offers a nice contrast to the savory fish.

How to Perfect Blackened Fish Tacos

To make your Blackened Fish Tacos truly outstanding, follow these simple tips for success.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure your spices are fresh for the best flavor impact.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook the fish over high heat to achieve that characteristic blackened crust.
• Let it Rest: Allow the fish to rest before serving; this helps retain its juices.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before filling them for better texture and taste.
• Customize Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Fish Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Blackened Fish Tacos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a great base.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and heartiness to the meal.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing the flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies offer a smoky taste that complements the tacos well.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer.
6. Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy mango salsa adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Blackened Fish Tacos, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of fish: Not all fish work well for blackening. Choose firm white fish like cod or tilapia for the best results.
• Overcooking the fish: Cooking the fish too long can lead to dryness. Monitor cooking time closely; aim for 3-4 minutes per side.
• Not using enough seasoning: A generous amount of blackened seasoning is key. Don’t skimp; it’s what gives these tacos their bold flavor.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the fish to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute. Skipping this step may result in dry fish.
• Forgetting about fresh toppings: Fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime wedges enhance flavor. Don’t overlook adding them for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blackened Fish Tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blackened Fish Tacos

• Wrap tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, it’s best to freeze the fish separately from tortillas and toppings.

Reheating Blackened Fish Tacos

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate; heat for 30-45 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blackened Fish Tacos, along with helpful answers:

Can I use frozen fish for Blackened Fish Tacos?

You can use frozen fish, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. This helps achieve even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What other toppings go well with Blackened Fish Tacos?

Besides shredded cabbage and cilantro, consider adding avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions for added texture and flavor.

How do I make Blackened seasoning at home?

Combine equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper for a homemade blend that works perfectly with your tacos.

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to keep your Blackened Fish Tacos gluten-free while still enjoying all the flavors.

What sides pair well with Blackened Fish Tacos?

Consider serving these tacos with a refreshing citrus salad or some Mexican street corn for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Fish Tacos are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and customizable. You can adjust the toppings or even swap out proteins based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal at home, these tacos will impress everyone with their bold flavors. Try this recipe today and savor every bite!

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Blackened Fish Tacos

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of Blackened Fish Tacos, where buttery fish fillets are coated with a savory blend of spices and herbs, delivering a delightful crunch in every bite. Wrapped in warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients like shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a zesty chipotle-lime sauce, these tacos are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual dinner or a lively taco night. With just 30 minutes of preparation, this dish is not only quick but also customizable to suit everyone’s taste preferences. Enjoy the healthy balance of protein and low carbs while savoring the irresistible taste of these tacos.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs white fish
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Corn tortillas
• Shredded purple cabbage
• Cilantro
• Cotija cheese
• 1/2 lime (juiced)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (chopped)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chipotle-lime sauce by blending sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic salt, chopped chipotle pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
2. Mix blackened seasoning ingredients: garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush fish fillets with melted butter and coat evenly with blackened seasoning.
4. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; cook fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until perfectly crusted.
5. Warm tortillas; fill them with fish and top with cabbage, cilantro, Cotija cheese, and drizzle with chipotle-lime sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Fresh spices enhance flavor; ensure they are not expired. Allow fish to rest for a minute before serving for better juiciness. Customize toppings with avocado or pickled onions for added flair.