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Cajun Blackened Fish Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 270 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Description

This Cajun Blackened Fish recipe features firm white fish fillets coated in a bold and spicy Cajun seasoning blend, then cooked in a hot skillet until the rub forms a flavorful, slightly charred crust. Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner with a smoky, spicy kick.


Ingredients

Scale

Spice Mix

  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 3/4 tsp table salt
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • Good grind of black pepper

Main

  • 4 firm white fish fillets (about 150g/5oz each)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil


Instructions

  1. Mix the Spice Blend: In a shallow dish, combine paprika, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dry mustard, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even seasoning blend.
  2. Coat the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Coat both sides of each fillet evenly with the spice mix, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place a large, heavy-based skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Cook the Fish: Add the seasoned fish fillets to the hot skillet. Cook without moving until the spice rub darkens and blackens on the bottom side, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and continue cooking the other side until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, approximately another 2-3 minutes depending on thickness.
  5. Serve Immediately: Remove the fish from the skillet and serve at once. It pairs beautifully with buttery corn rice salad or your choice of side dish.

Notes

  • Note 1: Choose firm white fish fillets such as catfish, snapper, cod, or tilapia for best results.
  • Note 2: Cooking time may vary depending on fillet thickness; ensure fish is cooked through but not overdone.
  • For a complete meal, serve with a buttery Corn Rice Salad (not included here).
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level.