Blackened Fish
Blackened Fish offers a bold, smoky flavor with a crispy exterior, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, flavorful meal. The seasoning creates a spicy crust that complements the tender fish inside, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions with a touch of Southern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dust the fish fillets with flour.
- Heat the butter and cooking oil in a large, heavy pan over medium heat.
- Add the fillets and cook for 3 minutes on one side.
- Turn the fillets over and sprinkle the blackened fish seasoning evenly over the browned side.
- Cook for another 3 minutes, then turn the fillets again, sprinkling this side with the seasoning.
- Increase the heat to high and sear each side of the fillets for about 2 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley sprigs and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to your blackened fish seasoning. If you don't have flour, cornstarch or almond flour can be excellent substitutes. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve that signature blackened crust. Using firm fleshed fish like catfish or snapper can also enhance the dish's texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blackened fish with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Edee'S Crab Salad, adding a delightful seafood twist to your meal. Consider serving it with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blackened fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil to prevent drying out. Cover the pan to retain moisture while warming through, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackened Fish contains roughly 185 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 16g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While firm-fleshed fish like catfish and snapper work best for blackening, you can also use tilapia, mahi-mahi, or swordfish. Just ensure the fish can hold up to the cooking method without falling apart.
What if I don't have blackened fish seasoning?
You can easily make your own seasoning blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the spices to your taste for a personalized flavor profile that still delivers that blackened essence.
Can I make this dish in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes, you can bake the fish for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the seasoned fish on a baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through. This method will not give you the same sear, but it will still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).