Tajin Tilapia Tacos with Mango Finger Lime ‘Caviar’

What’s Up, Hungry People

Tacos, tacos, TACOS! It’s taco night in the Starving Chef’s kitchen, and we’re going all in with a healthy twist using tilapia and a generous sprinkle of Tajín. If you’re anything like me, taco night is a sacred event, and these tilapia tacos are about to become a staple in your weekly rotation.

But let’s talk about why these tacos are a must-try. First off, tilapia is one of those underrated fish that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves. It’s mild, versatile, and perfect for soaking up all the bold flavors we’re about to throw at it. Paired with the tangy and spicy kick of Tajín, this fish gets an instant upgrade that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds, who’s counting?).

And then there’s the mango finger lime “caviar.” No, it’s not actual caviar, but these little citrus beads will have you fooled! Ready to spice things up?! I sure am!

What Is TAJÍN?

Pronounced “tah-heen,” this Mexican seasoning has found a permanent spot in my kitchen. It brings both citrusy notes and a kick of heat to any dish. With its lime-infused flavor, Tajín comes in varying levels of spiciness, making it a versatile choice for everything from fruits to meats.

I stumbled upon Tajín during the early days of quarantine, when I was on the hunt for new flavors to keep things interesting. You can usually find it in the grocery store with the other Mexican seasonings. For this dish, Tajín is the one and only seasoning for our fish. Trust me, it’s that good!

Mango Finger Lime “Caviar”

Nope, not actual caviar—don’t worry! Finger limes, native to Australia, are a fun and zesty addition to your dish, especially if you can find them here in the States. These limes, also called “caviar limes,” earn their nickname because, when sliced open, they release tiny citrus beads that look just like caviar.

To make these little gems shine, I marinate them with diced mango, shallot, garlic, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This mix creates a topping that bursts with citrusy goodness, perfect for your tacos.

@thestarvingchef finger limes are amazingly satisfying #asmr ♬ original sound – Felicia

Flavorizing the Tilapia

Tilapia is often overlooked, but it’s a fantastic fish to cook with, especially if you’re on a budget. It’s not as fancy as salmon or tuna, but it still brings plenty to the table.

For this recipe, I used thawed frozen tilapia fillets, but fresh works just as well, if not better. As mentioned, Tajín is the only seasoning needed here. Its bold flavor profile covers everything from sour to salty, with a hint of heat.

I sprinkle about a teaspoon or two on each side of the fillets, then let them rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the Tajín to do its thing, tenderizing the fillets and infusing them with flavor.

Homemade Avocado Crema

Avocado crema is the perfect counterbalance to the zesty notes from the finger lime and Tajín, adding a smooth, savory layer to your tacos.

Here’s What You Need:

• Avocado: Fresh is best; rub it with lime juice to keep it green and vibrant.
• Greek Yogurt: I used plain, low-fat, whole milk yogurt as the base of the crema.
• Mayonnaise: Adds a bit of tang without overpowering the avocado.
• Water: To thin out the sauce, as desired.

I opted to air-fry the tilapia fillets, but you can also roast them in the oven—whichever method suits your style (and leaves you with less clean-up!).

Let’s Cook

Start by generously sprinkling Tajín over both sides of your tilapia fillets. Let the fish rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes, allowing the seasoning to seep in and tenderize the meat. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 400°F, and then cook the fillets for 10-12 minutes, until they’re flaky and cooked through.

Making the Mango Finger Lime Caviar

While your fish is resting, mix up the mango finger lime caviar. In a small bowl, combine the diced mango, minced shallot, garlic, chopped cilantro or parsley, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Let this mixture chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, so the flavors can meld together.

Whipping Up the Avocado Crema

In a separate bowl, prepare the avocado crema. Mash the avocado until smooth, then whisk in the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and water. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed, and chill the crema until you’re ready to serve.

Assembling the Tacos

Now for the fun part—assembling your tacos! Start with a layer of avocado crema on a white corn tortilla. Flake the tilapia with a fork and place it on top of the crema. Add a spoonful of the mango finger lime caviar, and finish with shredded cheddar cheese, some chopped cilantro, and a handful of red cabbage.

Troubleshooting & Tips for Tilapia Tacos

• Overcooked Fish? If your tilapia is a bit too dry, next time, try reducing the cooking time by a minute or two. Every oven and air fryer is different, so keep an eye on it!
• Runny Crema? If your avocado crema is too thin, you can thicken it up by adding a bit more Greek yogurt or avocado. Just mix it well to keep the texture smooth.
• Finger Lime Substitutes: If you can’t find finger limes, a squeeze of regular lime juice mixed with some finely chopped lime zest can offer a similar citrusy pop.

Common Questions About My Tajin Tacos

• What if I can’t find Tajín?
  • If you can’t find Tajín, you can mix chili powder with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt as a substitute.
• Can I use another fish instead of tilapia?
  • Absolutely! Cod, haddock, or even salmon could work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
• Is there a dairy-free option for the avocado crema?
  • You can swap the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or leave it out altogether and add a bit more avocado for creaminess.

These tilapia tacos are all about bold, zesty flavors with a touch of fun. The combination of Tajín-spiced fish, mango finger lime “caviar,” and creamy avocado crema makes each bite a treat. Whether you’re whipping these up for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, they’re sure to be a hit. Grab some tortillas, pile on the toppings, and let everyone assemble their tacos just the way they like them. Don’t forget a side of sour cream for extra dipping—because more is always better!

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