In my mind summer means tacos and surf. Fortunately, the salty ocean and refreshing tacos are in my near future. I have to say, there is nothing better than getting out of the ocean and eating two, three or even four of these insanely good tacos. They are delicious and just happen to be unbelievably healthy.
My tacos pair the freshness of crisp cabbage, tender kale and juicy citrus with the buttery mouth feel of flaky cod. I promise that they are sure to impress and suit the mood for a sit down dinner or back yard BBQ.
A quick tip - if you are craving a lobster taco, which happens often for me, use monkfish. This meaty fish will convince you that its a delicious lobster tail taco without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
Serves 4 (8 tacos)
Citrus Slaw
Tuscan Kale - 1/2 bunch (finely shredded)
Cabbage 1/2 head (finely shredded)
Orange - 1 each (supreme and cut into 1/4'' pieces)
Grapefruit - 1 each (supreme and cut into 1/4'' pieces)
Cilantro - 1/4 cup chopped
Lime - 2 each juiced
Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 2 Tbsp
Honey - 1 Tbsp
Salt and Pepper - to taste
Taco
Cod (or monkfish) - 1 1/2 lb cut into 3 in long slices. To fit in the taco
Salt and Pepper - to taste
Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 2 Tbsp
Cilantro - 1/4 cup
Lime - 1 each juiced
Corn Tortillas - 8 each
The Method
Ok... let's work smarter not harder. This recipe should be a breeze and take no time at all.
The Slaw
First we need to make the slaw. Making it first and letting it marinate allows the flavors to meld together and for the kale to break down and become a bit more tender. Thinly slice the cabbage and kale (remember to take off the stems). Now quickly chop up the cilantro.
Next we must supreme the citrus. This simply means taking off the rind (video) Once that is finished just chop the slices up into small bite sized pieces. Simple.
To finish the slaw we just toss the cabbage, kale, citrus and cilantro into a mixing bowl and add olive oil, honey and lime juice. Mix it up, taste it and season with salt and pepper. Move the bowl to the fridge and let is sit.
The Fish
First get a seasoned cast-iron or non-stick pan hot over medium heat. Also wrap your tortillas in a moist towel and toss it in a warm place (it could be the oven or even in a pan on low).
Now we are ready to prepare the fish. The goal of the fish is to have pieces that will fit nicely into a taco... so measure the corn tortilla and cut away. When you cut be sure to use the entire blade and really focus on slicing not sawing or pressing... let the knife do the work!
Season all sides of the fish with a bit of salt and pepper... add the oil to the pan and make sure it is shimmering. Once the oil is hot, lay the fish into the pan and do not touch it.
The key to fish is letting it cook most of the way on one side. You will see a crust form and the fish being to change color on top. Once the edges are a nice golden brown, flip the fish, squeeze the lime over it, sprinkle it with cilantro and remove it from the pan.
The Finish
Using the corn tortilla as a base, lay the seasoned fish in the center, golden side up. Give the slaw a quick mix and add a small handful on top of the fish. Serve with a lime wedge and enjoy!