I’ve been obsessed with tacos lately, especially since grilling season is in full swing. There’s just something about a fun taco night that brings everyone together around the table. If you’re like me, you enjoy a little variety in your taco repertoire. I can tell you that these baked cod tacos have become a mainstay in our rotating dinner menu—pairing them with zesty corn salsa or a side of black bean salad creates the perfect balance for a delightful meal. Trust me; give them a whirl, and you won’t be disappointed!
Introduction
Baked cod tacos might sound like an unusual twist on a taco night favorite, but let me assure you, they are anything but! These tacos present succulent cod fillets seasoned to perfection, nestled in soft tortillas topped with a refreshing cabbage slaw and a creamy zesty sauce. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a healthy option that won’t leave you feeling bloated. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare—even on those busy weeknights.
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What is the flavor profile of this dish?
When I say “flavor explosion,” I’m talking about a harmonious dance of flavors! The cod, baked until tender, absorbs a rich medley of spices, including warm cumin and smoky paprika. It contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the cabbage and a kick of acidity from the lime juice. The sour cream crema ties it all together, adding a creamy texture and tang that balances the dish. Together, you’ve got a delightful mix of savory, creamy, and zesty.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Baked Cod Tacos?
This recipe stands out because it doesn’t rely on heavy sauces or complicated techniques. I took a classic taco and lightened it up while still bursting with flavor. Instead of heavy frying, baking the cod keeps it flaky and moist. The addition of spices creates depth while keeping it simple. The dynamic slaw adds an unexpected crunch that elevates the overall experience, making these tacos crispy, creamy, and robust without needing a lot of fuss.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful baked cod tacos:
– 1 pound of codFilets
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 lime, zested and juiced, divided
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon ground coriander
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you’re feeling spicy!)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup sour cream
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– A pinch of salt
– 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
– ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar (adds a depth of flavor)
– 6 (7 inch) flour tortillas
– 1 tomato, diced (Optional but recommended for a fresh touch)
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com
How to make baked cod tacos?
Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! The steps are straightforward but packed with flavor. From seasoning the fish to assembling the tacos, each part is fun and easy. Let’s dive right into the detailed steps that will lead you to taco bliss.
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure your cod cooks evenly while developing a slight crispness.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
In a casserole dish, lay your cod fillets. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and the juice from half the lime. Then, sprinkle cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the fish. This blend of spices creates a tantalizing flavor for the cod. Gently rub the spices into the fillets to ensure every bite is well-seasoned.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Put the casserole dish in the oven and bake for around 20 minutes. You want the cod to be flaky and opaque, perfect for shredding. Keep an eye on it—cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Flake the Fish
Once your cod is done, take it out of the oven. Using two forks, flake the fish apart right in the baking dish. This will make it easier to scoop into your tacos.
Step 5: Make the Crema
While the cod bakes, let’s whip up the zesty crema. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, minced garlic, lime zest, a bit of lime juice from the second half, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; you want it creamy with a slight tang.
Step 6: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
In another bowl, toss together the shredded red cabbage with the apple cider vinegar and a splash of lime juice. This creates a vibrant slaw that cuts through the richness of the fish and crema while giving it that fresh crunch.
Step 7: Warm the Tortillas
Warm up your tortillas to make them pliable and ready for filling. A quick way to do this is to put them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat them in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until they’re warm.
Step 8: Assemble Your Tacos
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Take a warm tortilla and layer in some of the flaky cod, top with crunchy cabbage slaw, drizzle on the crema, and add diced tomatoes if you like. Don’t be shy with the toppings! Repeat this process for each taco, and serve immediately for the best experience.
Tips On Making Baked Cod Tacos
– Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest fish and veggies you can find for the best flavor.
– Spice It Up: Feel free to tweak the spice levels; add extra cayenne or some hot sauce for heat.
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the slaw and crema in advance to save time on taco night.
– Tortilla Options: Try corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
– Add More Veggies: Consider adding sliced avocados or radishes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrients.
Storage Tips
To store your baked cod tacos, it’s best to keep components separate. Place the cod in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Avoid keeping the assembled tacos in the fridge, as the tortillas can become soggy. Assemble fresh tacos when ready to eat!
Nutrition Information
These baked cod tacos offer a balanced meal loaded with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Each taco provides approximately 320 calories, making them satisfying without being heavy. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids from the cod, essential for overall health.
Serving Suggestions
– Pico de Gallo: Fresh homemade pico de gallo can add another layer of freshness.
– Corn Salsa: A side of zesty corn salsa is an excellent pairing for these tacos.
– Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit at taco gatherings.
– Chips: Serve with tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a complete spread.
– Beer Pairing: Try pairing these tacos with a light Mexican lager or a refreshing margarita for an authentic twist.
If some of the items are not available in your kitchen, what are some substitute options for the ingredients?
– Cod Substitute:Haddock or tilapia work well as alternatives to cod if needed.
– Sour Cream Alternative:Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
– Spices Swap: Don’t have smoked paprika? Try regular paprika or some chili powder instead.
– Vinegar Choice: If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar can do the trick.
– Tortilla Type: Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option, or corn tortillas for a gluten-free choice.
Baked Cod Tacos
Equipment
- Oven
- casserole dish
- Mixing Bowls
- forks
- Microwave-safe plate
Ingredients
- Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful baked cod tacos:
- – 1 pound of codFilets
- – 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- – 1 lime zested and juiced, divided
- – 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- – ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- – ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- – ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or more if you’re feeling spicy!
- – ½ teaspoon salt
- – ½ teaspoon black pepper
- – ½ cup sour cream
- – 1 clove garlic minced
- – A pinch of salt
- – 1 small head of red cabbage shredded
- – ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar adds a depth of flavor
- – 6 7 inch flour tortillas
- – 1 tomato diced (Optional but recommended for a fresh touch)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure your cod cooks evenly while developing a slight crispness.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
- In a casserole dish, lay your cod fillets. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and the juice from half the lime. Then, sprinkle cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the fish. This blend of spices creates a tantalizing flavor for the cod. Gently rub the spices into the fillets to ensure every bite is well-seasoned.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
- Put the casserole dish in the oven and bake for around 20 minutes. You want the cod to be flaky and opaque, perfect for shredding. Keep an eye on it—cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Flake the Fish
- Once your cod is done, take it out of the oven. Using two forks, flake the fish apart right in the baking dish. This will make it easier to scoop into your tacos.
Step 5: Make the Crema
- While the cod bakes, let’s whip up the zesty crema. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, minced garlic, lime zest, a bit of lime juice from the second half, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; you want it creamy with a slight tang.
Step 6: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
- In another bowl, toss together the shredded red cabbage with the apple cider vinegar and a splash of lime juice. This creates a vibrant slaw that cuts through the richness of the fish and crema while giving it that fresh crunch.
Step 7: Warm the Tortillas
- Warm up your tortillas to make them pliable and ready for filling. A quick way to do this is to put them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat them in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until they’re warm.
Step 8: Assemble Your Tacos
- Now comes the fun part—assembly! Take a warm tortilla and layer in some of the flaky cod, top with crunchy cabbage slaw, drizzle on the crema, and add diced tomatoes if you like. Don’t be shy with the toppings! Repeat this process for each taco, and serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure it’s properly thawed and patted dry before seasoning, as frozen fish can hold moisture.
2. How can I make these tacos spicier?
You can increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning, add sliced jalapeños, or serve with a spicy salsa.
3. Can I prepare the slaw and crema in advance?
Absolutely! Both the slaw and crema can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge to save time on taco night.
4. What sides pair well with baked cod tacos?
Consider serving them with black bean salad, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
5. How long do leftover tacos last?
Store leftover cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. It’s best to assemble fresh tacos for the best texture.
Conclusion
Baked cod tacos are not just a meal; they’re an easy, tasty solution for weekday dinners or weekend gatherings. These tacos are packed with flavors that dance on your taste buds. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they fit seamlessly into any busy lifestyle while keeping your family happy. So gather around, get your taco game on, and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!
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