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Fish Tacos

The Ultimate Fish Tacos Recipe: A Flavorful Journey of Mexican Cuisine


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Fish tacos are a classic Mexican dish made by filling soft tortillas with seasoned fish, usually accompanied by a tangy slaw, creamy sauce, and a variety of toppings. The fish can be grilled, baked, or fried, while the slaw typically combines cabbage, cilantro, lime, and vinegar to add a refreshing crunch to the tacos. The sauce adds the finishing touch, providing a creamy, zesty element that ties everything together.


Ingredients

For the Fish:

  • 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (a mix of red and green is great)

  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

  • 2 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)

  • Salt to taste

For Assembly:

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas (heated)

  • Extra cilantro and lime wedges for garnish


Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.

  • Drizzle the fish fillets with olive oil, then sprinkle them with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings evenly on both sides of the fish fillets.

  • Squeeze the lime juice over the fish fillets.

  • Cook the fish: If baking, place the fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish easily flakes with a fork. If grilling, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

2. Make the Slaw:

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, and apple cider vinegar.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss the ingredients together to combine. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using).

  • Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust the salt and hot sauce according to your preference.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

  • Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave until soft and pliable.

  • Break the cooked fish into large chunks and place them in the center of each tortilla.

  • Top with a generous spoonful of slaw, then drizzle with the prepared sauce.

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

  • Serve the fish tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

Variations of Fish Tacos

1. For a Spicy Kick:

If you love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños to the slaw or sauce. Alternatively, increase the amount of hot sauce or even try a spicy chili paste to intensify the flavor.

2. For a Crunchier Texture:

If you’re after a crispier, crunchier texture, consider lightly frying the fish fillets rather than baking or grilling them. The crispy exterior will add a satisfying contrast to the soft tortillas and creamy sauce.

3. For a Smokier Flavor:

For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the fish seasoning. This will bring a depth of flavor and complexity to the dish, especially if you’re grilling the fish.

4. Vegetarian Fish Tacos:

Swap the fish for grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. You can also use fried tofu or cauliflower as a plant-based substitute.

5. Seafood Variation:

If you’re a fan of shrimp or scallops, you can easily replace the fish with these other types of seafood. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure they’re cooked perfectly.

Notes

These fish tacos are best enjoyed fresh and with good company! Feel free to get creative with your toppings — whether it’s a squeeze of lime, spicy salsa, or creamy avocado, make it your own!

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Keywords: The Ultimate Fish Tacos Recipe