Description
Culinary magic happens with this blackened cod, a sizzling seafood sensation that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Spice-crusted fish meets quick-cooking perfection, promising a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily craft in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 pieces cod fillets (about 6 ounces/170 grams each)
Seasoning and Spices:
- 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Liquid and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Thoroughly blot cod fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp exterior during cooking.
- Generously massage olive oil onto each fillet, creating a uniform coating for optimal seasoning adhesion.
- Create a vibrant spice blend by combining Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, then evenly distribute the mixture across the fish surface.
- Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat, adding a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote caramelization.
- Carefully position seasoned cod fillets into the hot skillet, allowing each piece to develop a rich, dark crust for approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Gently flip the fillets using a spatula, continuing to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish becomes opaque and easily separates with minimal pressure.
- Test doneness by checking that the cod flakes effortlessly and displays a consistent white color throughout.
- Enhance the dish’s brightness by squeezing fresh lemon juice directly over the blackened cod just before serving, balancing the robust spice profile with citrusy notes.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality cod for the best flavor and texture, ensuring the fish is firm and has a clean, ocean-like smell.
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps create a perfect crispy crust and prevents steaming instead of searing.
- Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness; thicker pieces might need slightly longer cooking to reach the ideal flaky consistency.
- For a low-carb and gluten-free option, this recipe naturally fits those dietary requirements without any modifications needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg