Veracruz Style Fish: A Taste of Mexico’s Coastal Cuisine
Transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Veracruz, Mexico, with this vibrant and flavorful Veracruz Style Fish recipe. Known for its fresh seafood and bold flavors, Veracruz cuisine combines the richness of tomatoes, the brininess of olives and capers, and the subtle heat of jalapeños to create a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s sure to impress with its bright colors and complex flavors.
Veracruz Style Fish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Packed with lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a meal that nourishes your body and soul. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this dish is a must-try!
Why This Veracruz-Style Fish Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s quick and easy to prepare, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a high-end restaurant. The combination of fresh fish, tangy tomatoes, and briny olives creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can use any firm white fish, such as tilapia, cod, or snapper, and adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s also a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.
What’s In Veracruz Style Fish?
The magic of Veracruz Style Fish lies in its fresh and vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fish: Firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper works best. It holds up well during cooking and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned diced tomatoes form the base of the sauce, adding sweetness and acidity.
- Olives and Capers: These briny ingredients add a tangy, salty depth to the dish.
- Jalapeños: Provide a mild heat that complements the other flavors without overwhelming them.
- Garlic and Onions: The aromatic foundation of the sauce, adding richness and complexity.
- Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves, oregano, and cilantro bring a fresh, earthy flavor to the dish.
How To Make Veracruz Style Fish
This recipe is straightforward and comes together in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, olives, capers, bay leaves, and oregano. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
- Gently place the fish fillets into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the fish and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Sides for Veracruz Style Fish
Pair your Veracruz-Style Fish with these delicious sides:
- Steamed Rice: A simple and classic accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Warm Tortillas: Perfect for making fish tacos or scooping up the sauce.
- Avocado Salad: A refreshing mix of avocado, lettuce, and lime dressing to balance the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add a smoky, healthy touch.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use Frozen Fish?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
The spice level is mild to medium, depending on the jalapeños. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor or add more jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the fish.
Other Recipes To Try
If you enjoyed this Veracruz-Style Fish, here are some other recipes you might like:
- Shrimp Ceviche: A zesty and refreshing seafood dish perfect for summer.
- Chicken Tinga Tacos: Smoky, spicy shredded chicken in soft tortillas.
- Pescado Zarandeado: A grilled whole fish recipe with a smoky, spicy marinade.
- Chiles en Nogada: A festive Mexican dish featuring stuffed poblano peppers topped with walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
Veracruz Style Fish
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 firm white fish fillets tilapia, cod, or snapper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1-2 jalapeños seeded and diced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- ½ cup green olives sliced
- 2 tbsp capers
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onions, garlic, and jalapeños until softened. Add tomatoes, olives, capers, bay leaves, and oregano. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Fish: Add fish fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove bay leaves, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Fish Substitutions: Use any firm white fish or even shrimp for a variation.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before adding the fish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Veracruz Style Fish! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!