Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos

Name: Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod); 2 tbsp jerk seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Corn or flour tortillas

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love these Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos! The first time I made them, I was blown away by the vibrant flavors and how quickly they came together. The tender fish, marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning, perfectly complements fresh toppings like mango salsa and crunchy slaw. It’s a fantastic dish that gets everyone excited and engaged at the table. Whether I'm entertaining friends or just enjoying a family dinner, these tacos are always a hit and guaranteed to satisfy any cravings for bold flavors.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:54:30.541Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was surprised at how simple it is to create such deep flavors. The key to those rich notes comes from marinating the fish in a homemade jerk seasoning, which truly brings out the heat and depth of Jamaican cuisine. I also learned that lightly frying the fish gives it a beautiful crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

For the toppings, I love using a vibrant mango salsa that adds sweetness and freshness, which balances the spice perfectly. Don’t skip the lime juice; it elevates the entire dish and pulls everything together, making each bite refreshing.

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Bold, spicy flavors that awaken your taste buds
Fresh and vibrant toppings enhance every bite
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning, originating from Jamaica, is a vibrant spice blend that imparts a bold flavor to the fish in these tacos. The key components typically include allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and hot peppers, all working together to create a complex taste profile. Using a good quality jerk seasoning is essential for the best results; look for a brand that features natural ingredients without added fillers. If you're in a pinch, you can also make your own by combining these spices with brown sugar and garlic.

Marinating the fish with jerk seasoning not only infuses flavor, but it also helps tenderize the fillets, allowing them to absorb the spices fully. I recommend letting the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes if possible—this extra time enhances the flavors even more. However, even a short 15-minute marination will yield delicious results. Keep an eye on the fish during cooking; overcooking can lead to dryness, so the fish should be flaky and opaque when done.

Perfecting the Mango Slaw

The mango slaw is a crucial component that adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy fish. The sweetness of the mango, balanced with the acidity of lime juice and the crunch of cabbage, creates a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. Use a ripe but firm mango to ensure it holds its shape during mixing. If mango isn't available, you can substitute with diced pineapple for a similar freshness, but adjust the lime juice to account for the extra sweetness.

For a little extra kick, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mango slaw. Don’t shy away from making the slaw ahead of time; in fact, letting it sit for 20 to 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve—this will keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant while allowing the flavors to develop.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos are incredibly versatile, allowing for various serving ideas that can suit any occasion. For a heartier meal, consider adding refried beans or avocado slices to each taco. If you want to spice things up even further, a drizzle of spicy mayo or a sprinkle of feta cheese can complement the flavors beautifully. Try serving the tacos with a side of coconut rice or grilled vegetables to enhance the tropical vibes.

If you're prepping for a crowd, this recipe can easily be scaled up. A good rule of thumb is to double the fish and toppings for every additional three to four people. Just keep in mind that cooking in batches ensures even cooking; overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than searing the fish. Lastly, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy these tacos again!

Ingredients

For the Fish

1 lb white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
2 tbsp jerk seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings

1 cup shredded cabbage
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Corn or flour tortillas

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the fish

In a bowl, rub the fish fillets with jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the fish

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated fish. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and flaky.

Prepare the toppings

In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss well to mix.

Assemble the tacos

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet. Place pieces of fish on each tortilla and top with the mango slaw mixture. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your tacos with extra lime wedges for added flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra heat, you can add sliced jalapeños to the toppings or a hot sauce of your choice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover fish or slaw, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fish can be reheated in a skillet over low heat with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Make sure to cover it with a lid to keep moisture in, and reheat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through until heated through.

The mango slaw is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for up to two days. Before serving the slaw again, give it a good toss to redistribute the juices and refresh its flavor. If it seems too dry, a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil can help revive it. Avoid freezing the slaw, as the texture will become mushy upon thawing.

Common Troubleshooting

If your fish is sticking to the skillet, it could be due to inadequate oil or high heat. Make sure to use enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan, and let it heat up before adding the fish. This will create a nice sear without sticking, resulting in a more flavorful crust. If your fish doesn't flake easily, it may need a bit longer cooking time—just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't dry out.

Some may find the jerk seasoning to be too spicy; if that’s the case, you could dilute the seasoning with a bit of yogurt or sour cream before marinating the fish. Alternatively, using less jerk seasoning can maintain flavor without overwhelming heat. Experimenting with spice levels can help tailor these tacos to your preferences and those of your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with toppings such as avocado, pickled onions, or a spicy mayo.

→ Can I prepare the fish in advance?

You can, but it's best to cook the fish just before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What type of fish works best?

White fish like tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi works best for this recipe.