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 cod or tilapia); 2 tbsp jerk seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore these Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos! Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of spices that transport me straight to the Caribbean. I love the combination of crispy, seasoned fish with a refreshing slaw that adds crunch. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also brings a lively twist to taco night. Whether we’re having a casual dinner or hosting friends, these tacos always impress and leave everyone wanting more.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:41:00.106Z

When I first prepared these Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they turned out. The seasoning I used not only enhanced the fish but also gave it a perfect crispy exterior when pan-fried. The trick is to let the fish marinate a bit before cooking; this enhances the flavors and keeps the fish moist.

I discovered that a fresh mango salsa elevates these tacos to another level. The sweetness of the mango paired with the spiciness of the fish creates a delightful contrast. Don't skip the slaw, as it adds the necessary crunch and balance!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant spices that awaken your taste buds
A refreshing mango salsa that complements the fish perfectly
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning is the heart and soul of these Jamaican fish tacos. This flavorful mixture typically includes allspice, thyme, scallions, and Scotch bonnet peppers, delivering a spicy yet aromatic profile. The combination of heat from the peppers and the warm undertones from spices creates a vibrant marinade that makes the fish truly shine. If you can’t find jerk seasoning at your local store, consider making your own blend using a combination of ground spices and fresh herbs for the best results.

When marinating the fish, give it a minimum of 15 minutes to absorb the seasoning's flavors. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour will deepen the taste significantly. Just be sure not to oversaturate the fish with seasoning; balance is key to avoid overwhelming the delicate fish flavor.

Perfecting the Slaw

The slaw serves as a refreshing counterpart to the spiced fish, adding a cool crunch that balances the heat. You can customize the slaw by experimenting with additional ingredients like red cabbage or diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Additionally, using a touch of honey in the mayonnaise can lend a slight sweetness that further counteracts the spiciness of the jerk seasoning.

For the best texture, make sure to mix the slaw ingredients gently, just until combined, to avoid bruising the cabbage. Letting it rest for about 10 minutes before serving also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. If you're prepping ahead of time, store the slaw separately to keep it crisp.

Assembling the Perfect Taco

Warming the corn tortillas is a critical step that enhances both flavor and flexibility. Instead of frying them, which can add unnecessary calories and fat, I recommend heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable and slightly toasty. This method allows the tortillas to remain soft while adding a subtle toasted flavor.

When assembling your tacos, consider layering as follows: slaw on the bottom, then fish, topped with mango and avocado. This order prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy and ensures each bite captures the harmony of flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a squeeze of additional lime juice can elevate the dish!

Ingredients

For the Fish

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

For the Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

8 small corn tortillas
1 ripe mango, diced
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Fish

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

Make the Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Cook the Fish

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated fish and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and flake the fish using a fork.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. In each tortilla, place a layer of the slaw, followed by the flaky fish, diced mango, and avocado slices. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your spicy fish tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for added zest.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the tacos or drizzling a spicy sauce over top. If you prefer a grill flavor, you can also grill the marinated fish instead of pan-frying.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftover fish or slaw, store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. The fish can be refrigerated for up to two days, while the slaw will stay crisp for about three days. Reheating the fish in a skillet over low heat works best to preserve its texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the fish chewy.

You can prepare the slaw and the jerk seasoning a day in advance. This will save you time during busy weeknights, letting you simply cook the fish and assemble the tacos when you're ready. Just remember to keep the slaw refrigerated until it's time to serve.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Jamaican Fish Tacos pair wonderfully with a light side such as grilled vegetable skewers or coconut rice. The subtle flavors in these sides complement the explosiveness of the tacos without competing with them. Moreover, serving with lime wedges not only adds freshness but also brightens the overall dish, so don’t skip this garnishing step.

For a complete meal, consider serving a chilled beer or a refreshing tropical drink, such as a coconut water or a mango smoothie. The beverage should harmonize with the spicy fish while enhancing the Caribbean vibe of the meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to substitute the white fish in this recipe with any firm, flaky fish, like snapper or mahi-mahi. Each option will impart its own unique flavor profile, creating a different culinary experience while still being delicious. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, roasted cauliflower or jackfruit can work beautifully when seasoned with jerk spices.

You can also add extra toppings such as pickled red onions or jalapeños for added zest and heat. Experimenting with different toppings allows you to tailor the tacos to your preferences, making every taco night an exciting new adventure in flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What type of fish works best for this recipe?

White flaky fish like cod or tilapia works best for this recipe due to its mild flavor and texture.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the tacos.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the fish with grilled vegetables or jackfruit seasoned with jerk spices for a vegetarian twist.