Fish tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch. While traditional recipes often use fish like cod or tilapia, halibut is an excellent alternative. Its firm texture and mild flavor make it perfect for tacos. Paired with a zesty mango salsa, these halibut fish tacos are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Let's dive into the process of making these delicious tacos.
Ingredients
For the Halibut:
- 1 pound halibut fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Shredded cabbage
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream or crema
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Halibut:
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Season the Fish: Start by patting the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the halibut fillets.
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Marinate: Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and lime juice. Let the fish marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Cook the Halibut: Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the halibut for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
Making the Mango Salsa:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro.
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Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir well to combine. Season with salt to taste. Let the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assembling the Tacos:
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Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are warm and pliable.
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Build Your Tacos: Place a generous amount of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Add a few pieces of cooked halibut, followed by a spoonful of mango salsa. Top with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream or crema.
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Serve: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce to your tacos. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Fish Tacos
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Freshness is Key: Use the freshest halibut you can find. Fresh fish makes a big difference in the taste and texture of your tacos.
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Don't Overcook the Fish: Halibut can become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it flakes easily.
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute toppings based on your preference. Pickled onions, radishes, or even a corn salsa can be great additions.
Conclusion
Making halibut fish tacos with mango salsa is a delightful way to bring a taste of Mexico to your table. The combination of the spicy, savory fish with the sweet, tangy mango salsa creates a harmony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you're serving them at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the delicious journey of making halibut fish tacos!