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Prep Time20 Mins
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Cook Time10 Mins
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Serving4
What Are Blackened Fish Tacos?
Discover the perfect blend of spicy, smoky, and fresh flavors in these restaurant-quality blackened fish tacos. This recipe transforms simple white fish into a Mexican-inspired feast using a signature blackening technique and fresh, vibrant toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Experience the perfect balance of textures and flavors – spicy blackened fish, crispy slaw, and creamy avocado sauce, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. This crowd-pleasing recipe brings the best of coastal taco shops to your kitchen.
The Secret to Perfect Blackened Fish
Understanding the Technique
The magic lies in the blackening seasoning and proper cooking technique. A perfectly balanced spice blend creates a flavorful crust when seared at high heat, while keeping the fish tender and moist inside.
Choosing Your Fish
Select firm white fish fillets that can stand up to the bold seasoning and high-heat cooking method. Cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi are excellent choices for their mild flavor and sturdy texture.
Essential Components
The Perfect Blackening Seasoning
Our signature spice blend combines paprika, cumin, and cayenne for heat, balanced with herbs and garlic for depth. This customizable mixture lets you adjust the spice level to your preference.
Fresh and Crunchy Toppings
The contrast of textures makes these tacos special. Crispy cabbage slaw adds crunch, while creamy avocado sauce provides a cool, rich element that complements the spicy fish.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Quick Weeknight Dinner
Despite their impressive appearance, these tacos come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special but quick.
Entertaining Made Easy
The make-ahead components and easy assembly make these tacos ideal for casual entertaining. Set up a taco bar and let guests build their own combinations.
Versatility and Variations
Customization Options
Adapt the recipe to your taste by adjusting spice levels, trying different fish varieties, or experimenting with toppings. The basic technique remains the same while allowing for endless creativity.
Dietary Adaptations
Naturally gluten-free when made with corn tortillas, these tacos can be adapted for various dietary needs. The avocado cream sauce can be made dairy-free for a lighter option.
Ingredients
For the Fish
Blackening Seasoning
Cabbage Slaw
Avocado Cream Sauce
Directions
Begin by preparing the slaw. Combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Pour over the vegetables, add salt and pepper to taste, and toss well. Add chopped cilantro and refrigerate while preparing the rest of the components.
For the avocado cream sauce, combine the avocado flesh, sour cream, lime juice, and garlic in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate until needed.
Mix all blackening seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and coat generously with the seasoning mixture on all sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Transfer to a cutting board and break into chunks.
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame until slightly charred. Keep warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
To assemble, place a portion of blackened fish in each tortilla, top with cabbage slaw and a generous dollop of avocado cream sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
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