Crispy Blackened Fish Bites with Lemon-Herb Tartar Sauce

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Yields: 3–4 servings

Ingredients

For the Blackened Fish

• 1.5 lbs (680g) firm white fish fillets (like Cod, Halibut, Mahi-Mahi, or Haddock), cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for coating the fish)
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1-2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

For the Lemon-Herb Tartar Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp dill pickles or relish, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest, finely grated
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tartar Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced pickles, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh chopped herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir thoroughly until smooth. Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill while you cook the fish—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Season the Fish

1. Dry the Fish: Pat the fish chunks completely dry using paper towels. Removing surface moisture is essential to getting that perfect seared crust.
2. Oil Coat: Place the fish bites into a bowl and drizzle with the melted butter or olive oil. Toss gently to coat.
3. Spice Rub: In a small dish, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the fish, tossing until every side is completely coated in spices.

Step 3: Sear to Perfection

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of high-smoke-point oil (like vegetable oil) and let it get hot.
2. Cook in Batches: Carefully place the fish bites into the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan, or the fish will steam instead of sear; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Flip Gently: Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until a dark, flavorful crust forms on the bottom. Carefully flip the bites over and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Serve It Up

Transfer the hot blackened fish bites to a serving dish and serve immediately alongside your chilled, zesty lemon-herb tartar sauce for dipping!