Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of bold flavors? Dive into the world of Mexican cuisine with our Ancho Chili Spiced Tilapia! This dish not only promises a quick and satisfying meal, but it also delivers an explosion of smoky, spicy goodness that will leave you craving more. In just 22 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dinner for four that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that transforms simple tilapia fillets into a culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets, 2 tablespoons of ancho chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 lime cut into wedges.
- In a small bowl, combine the ancho chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a spice blend.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the spices adhere better and ensure a nice sear.
- Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the tilapia fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Evenly sprinkle the spice blend over both sides of the tilapia fillets, pressing gently to help the spices adhere to the fish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to get hot, then add the seasoned tilapia fillets to the skillet.
- Cook the tilapia fillets for about 3-4 minutes on one side, without moving them, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the tilapia from the skillet and transfer to a serving platter.
- Serve the ancho chili spiced tilapia hot, garnished with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
- Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal, perfect for pairing with rice, beans, or a fresh salad!
Tips
- Patience is Key: Make sure to let the skillet heat up properly before adding the tilapia. A hot skillet helps create that delicious golden crust that adds texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of ancho chili powder based on your spice preference. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime wedges for serving; the acidity brightens the flavors of the fish and enhances the overall dish.
- Side Pairings: This tilapia pairs beautifully with a side of cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or a refreshing avocado salad to complete your meal.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently to preserve the fish's tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 55mg
