Blackened Cod

User Reviews

5

174 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Total Time

    10 mins

  • Servings

    4

  • Calories

    152 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    American, Cajun

Blackened Cod

Blackened Cod delivers flaky white fish coated in a deeply spiced dry rub and pan-seared in hot oil to form a crisp, flavorful crust. The seasoning blend of paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and garlic balances warmth and herbaceous notes that complement the mild cod. Cooking in a heavy skillet at medium-high heat ensures the fish sears properly on each side while retaining moisture inside. This classic preparation yields a robustly seasoned fillet that pairs well with simple sides.

Description

Blackened Cod features cod fillets seasoned with a homemade spice mixture including paprika, garlic and onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. The fish is patted dry to remove moisture so the spices stick well and the crust forms during cooking. Cooking takes place in a hot cast iron or heavy pan with vegetable oil, searing the fish for 2 to 3 minutes per side to develop a deep crust without overcooking.

The spice blend combines smoky, earthy, and slightly spicy flavors that penetrate the fish surface while the quick pan sear locks in the delicate texture of the cod. The result is a fish that's crisp on the outside and tender inside, offering a pleasant contrast of texture and well-rounded flavor. The seasoning can be adjusted or replaced with a store-bought Cajun blend to save time.

Serve this Blackened Cod hot for best texture. It can be accompanied by light sides like steamed vegetables or rice. Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container and used within 1 to 2 days for freshness. Cooking in batches may be necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan and to maintain proper crust formation.

Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145° ensures safety and doneness. A cast iron skillet is recommended for even heat and best blackening effect, though a non-stick pan with oil can work as well.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 24 ounces cod 4 60 ounce fillets or loins
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried
  • 1 teaspoon oregano dried
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon coarse salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper.
  2. Dry each cod fillet or loin with paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the fish, using your hands to coat all sides of the fillet.
  4. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet or other heavy pan over medium high heat.
  5. Put the fillets, into the hot pan without crowding. Cook 2-3 minutes without turning.
  6. Carefully turn the fish using a spatula or fish spatula. Cook for 2-3 more minutes.
  7. Serve hot

Notes

  • Pat cod fillets dry before seasoning to help spices adhere and ensure a crisp crust.
  • Use a cast iron or heavy skillet and make sure the oil is hot before adding the fish for proper blackening.
  • Flip fish only once to develop a good crust on each side.
  • Leave space between fillets and cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
  • Clean and re-oil the pan between batches to maintain heat and crispness.
  • A meat thermometer can confirm fish is cooked safely to 145°F internally.
  • This seasoning blend works well with other firm fish like halibut, mahi mahi, snapper, or salmon.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1g Calories 152kcal (8%) Carbohydrates 3g (1%) Protein 31g (62%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g (6%) Monounsaturated Fat 1g (5%) Cholesterol 73mg (24%) Sodium 385mg (16%) Potassium 773mg (16%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 1053IU (21%) Vitamin C 2mg (2%) Calcium 48mg (5%) Iron 2mg (11%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 152 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1g
Calories 152kcal 8%
Carbohydrates 3g 1%
Protein 31g 62%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 73mg 24%
Sodium 385mg 16%
Potassium 773mg 16%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 2%
Vitamin A 1053IU 21%
Vitamin C 2mg 2%
Calcium 48mg 5%
Iron 2mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

5

174 reviews
Excellent

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