Name: Fish Taco Seasoning Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon chili powder (for 1 pound fish; increase proportionally); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, for seasoning the fish; 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi; wild caught preferable)

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Introduction

This homemade fish taco seasoning is a simple and flavorful blend that perfectly complements white fish like tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi. It brings a smoky, slightly spicy kick to your tacos without overwhelming the fresh taste of the fish. Easy to prepare and even easier to use, this seasoning mix will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

The image shows a taco with three pieces of crispy, golden-brown fried fish on top. Underneath the fish, there is a layer of thinly sliced purple cabbage and small bits of green herbs scattered on top. A creamy white sauce is drizzled over the fish and cabbage. The taco is made with a slightly charred white corn tortilla, placed on a white plate with two lime wedges in the top left corner. The surface under the plate has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon chili powder (enough for 1 pound fish; increase as needed)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt, for seasoning
1 pound white fish (tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi; wild caught preferable)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Store this seasoning blend in a sealed container until ready to use. For larger batches, double the quantities and use 2 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of fish.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, then pat it in gently.
Step 3: Rub the fish thoroughly with the prepared fish taco seasoning, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
Step 4: Place the seasoned fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until the fish is tender and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the top of the fish is lightly browned and slightly crisp.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lime juice over the cooked fish for a bright, citrusy finish that balances the spices.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix if you prefer extra heat.
This seasoning blend works well with grilled fish, too—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Make a large batch of the seasoning and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Storage

Store any leftover fish taco seasoning in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place for up to three months. Cooked fish is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to retain moisture and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white soft tortilla with light charred edges lying flat on a white marbled surface. On top, there are three pieces of crispy, golden-brown fried fish with a flaky white inside. Under the fish, there is a layer of thin, vibrant purple shredded cabbage and small thin carrot strips. A light creamy white sauce is drizzled over the fish, with tiny green cilantro leaves scattered on top. In the background on the white marbled surface, there are two lime wedges resting behind the tortilla. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this seasoning on other types of seafood?

Yes, this seasoning is versatile and works well with shrimp, scallops, or even grilled salmon. Adjust cooking times based on the seafood type.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. All the spices used are naturally gluten-free, but always check your spice labels to ensure no cross-contamination.