Blackened Cod Bites

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 6 to 8 minutes

• Total Time: 16 to 18 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Cooking Intensity: Easy / Beginner-Friendly (Requires quick flipping and attentive heat control to prevent burning the spices)

Ingredients

For the Cod Bites:

• Cod Fillets: 1.5 lbs, fresh or completely thawed and patted thoroughly dry, cut into uniform 1.5-inch bite-sized chunks

• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted (melted)

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (high-smoke point oil for searing)

For the Blackening Spice Blend:

• Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon

• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon

• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon

• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon

• Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon

• Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (adjust based on your preferred heat intensity)

• Salt: 1 teaspoon

• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Dry the Fish

Start by placing your cod chunks on a plate lined with paper towels. Use another paper towel to gently press down and remove as much surface moisture as possible. Crucial Tip: Removing excess water ensures the seasoning adheres properly and allows a gorgeous crust to form during searing instead of steaming the fish.

Step 2: Mix the Blackening Seasoning

In a small mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well with a fork until all the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Cod Bites

Transfer the dry cod pieces into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted butter over the fish, tossing gently with a spatula to coat each piece evenly. Sprinkle half of the blackening spice blend over the cod, toss again, and then sprinkle the remaining spice mix. Ensure every piece has a rich, even coating of the seasoning.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Place a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and half of the remaining butter (if using extra for the pan). Allow the pan to get piping hot—you want it shimmering and just beginning to smoke slightly to achieve that authentic blackened crust.

Step 5: Sear to Perfection

Carefully place the seasoned cod bites into the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (cook in two batches if necessary). Let them sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until a dark, flavorful crust forms on the bottom.

Step 6: Flip and Finish

Gently flip each cod bite using a thin spatula. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the second side until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

Nutrition Information

• Values are approximate per serving (one-fourth of the recipe).

• Calories: 210 kcal

• Total Fat: 9g

  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g

• Cholesterol: 75mg

• Sodium: 680mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 3g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 0g

• Protein: 28g