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Spicy Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened Fish Tacos

Flavourful, pan-seared blackened fish fillets served in warm tortillas with a cool, zesty slaw. A quick, easy, and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

For the Blackened Fish
  • 600 g firm white fish fillets like cod, haddock, or tilapia, cut into 4 equal portions
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper or more, to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp soft brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Zesty Slaw
  • 200 g red cabbage finely shredded
  • 1 large carrot grated
  • 4 spring onions thinly sliced
  • A large handful of fresh coriander chopped
  • 100 g Greek yoghurt or soured cream
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt
For Serving
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • Optional: Sliced avocado fresh jalapeños, crumbled feta cheese

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, grated carrot, sliced spring onions, and chopped coriander. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yoghurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Set aside in the fridge while you prepare the fish.
  2. Mix the Spices: In another small bowl, mix together all the spices for the fish: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets completely dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over all sides of the fish fillets. I find that gently pressing the spices into the flesh helps them adhere better during cooking.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan or cast-iron skillet over a medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get hot – you should see it shimmer slightly.
  5. Sear the Fish: Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets in the hot pan, ensuring you don't overcrowd it (cook in two batches if necessary). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, undisturbed, until a dark, flavourful crust forms.
  6. Flip and Finish Cooking: Using a thin spatula, carefully flip the fish. Cook for another 2-4 minutes on the second side. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. The fish is cooked when it's opaque all the way through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Rest the Fish: Remove the fish from the pan and let it rest on a plate for a minute or two. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
  8. Warm the Tortillas: While the fish is resting, you can warm your tortillas. Either heat them for a few seconds over a gas flame, or wrap them in a damp tea towel and microwave for 30-40 seconds until soft and pliable.
  9. Assemble the Tacos: Flake the cooked fish into large chunks. To assemble, place a generous spoonful of the zesty slaw onto a warm tortilla, top with a few chunks of the blackened fish, and finish with any extra toppings you like. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over.

Notes

Ensure the fish is patted completely dry before seasoning to get the best crust. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and optional toppings like sliced avocado or fresh jalapeños.