Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, these spiced cod tacos are the perfect choice. With tender cod fillets seasoned with warm spices and topped with a fresh cabbage slaw, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, these tacos are sure to impress. The added kick of the spicy lime sauce brings everything together, making this dish a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Fish:
– 2 cod fillets
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
– 4 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Spicy Lime Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 clove garlic, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon chili garlic paste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Fish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine cumin, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the cod fillets. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fillets, rubbing gently to ensure even coating. Place the seasoned fish on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Prepare the Toppings:
While the fish is baking, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil until soft and pliable. In a bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with the juice of one lime to create a simple slaw. Dice the tomatoes, slice the avocado, and chop the fresh cilantro.
Prepare the Spicy Lime Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, grated garlic, salt, black pepper, and chili garlic paste until smooth. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
Assemble the Tacos:
Once the fish is cooked, use a fork to flake it into bite-sized pieces. Place the flaked fish onto the warmed tortillas. Top with the cabbage slaw, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the spicy lime sauce over the toppings. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side, if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
Consider serving with extra lime wedges for a zesty kick.
Storage:
Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best to store components separately to maintain freshness.
Substitutions:
Feel free to replace cod with another white fish such as tilapia or haddock, and adjust the toppings according to your preferences.
Spicy Level:
Adjust the chili garlic paste in the sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Fish
To enhance the flavor of the cod fillets, create a spice mix using cumin, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Drizzle olive oil to help the spices adhere, and rub it on both sides of the fillets for even coating.
Baking the Fish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the seasoned cod on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes. This method ensures even cooking until the fish easily flakes with a fork.
Warming Tortillas
Warm corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil. This makes them soft and pliable, perfect for holding your taco fillings.
Making Cabbage Slaw
Toss shredded cabbage with lime juice for a refreshing slaw. This adds a bright flavor and crunchy texture to your tacos.
Preparing the Spicy Lime Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, grated garlic, salt, black pepper, and chili garlic paste until smooth. Refrigerate the sauce to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Assembling the Tacos
Once the fish is cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces and layer it onto the warmed tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro. Finish with a drizzle of spicy lime sauce for an extra kick.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fish instead of cod?
Yes, you can substitute cod with other firm white fish such as tilapia or halibut.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance.
Can I prepare the spicy lime sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the spicy lime sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
What variations can I make to the toppings?
Feel free to add or substitute toppings such as radishes, jalapeños, or different types of salsa to customize your tacos.
Can I make this meal gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure that the corn tortillas are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
The baked cod tacos with spicy lime sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The seasoned fish pairs beautifully with fresh toppings like cabbage slaw, diced tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all harmonized by the zesty sauce. This dish not only makes for a satisfying meal but also showcases the versatility of cod and the vibrant taste of Mexican-inspired ingredients.
Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Swap the spicy lime sauce for a fresh mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a fruity twist on your tacos.
Crispy Fish Tacos with Chipotle Cream
Fry the cod fillets for a crispy texture and top with a chipotle cream sauce made from sour cream, chipotle peppers in adobo, and lime juice for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Tacos
Replace the cod with seasoned and grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms; top with the same cabbage slaw and spicy lime sauce for a hearty vegetarian option.
Fish Burrito Bowls
For a different presentation, serve the flaked cod and toppings over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with avocado, tomatoes, cabbage, and drizzled with sauce for a delicious burrito bowl.
Grilled Fish Tacos
Marinate the cod in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and spices, then grill it for a smoky flavor and serve with all the original toppings and sauce for a summer favorite.
