18 Spicy Red Fish Recipes Everyone Loves

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you ready to spice up your seafood game? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrill ride. From the Gulf Coast to the Far East, these spicy red fish dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, our collection of recipes has got you covered. Grilled, pan-seared, steamed, or baked – we’ve got a method that’s sure to please. And with flavors ranging from smoky chipotle to spicy habanero, there’s something for every palate.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing some of the most delicious and unique red fish recipes out there. From tacos to curries, ceviche to burgers, we’ve got it all covered. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to spice things up with these 18 spicy red fish recipes everyone loves!

Grilled Red Snapper with Chili Lime Butter

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.

Ingredients:

– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the red snapper fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, spread the chili lime butter evenly over each fillet.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total

Pan-Seared Redfish with Cajun Spice Rub

This recipe combines the delicate flavor of redfish with the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine, making for a dish that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun spice rub
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun spice rub and a pinch of salt.
3. Season both sides of the redfish fillets with the spice mixture.
4. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
5. Place the redfish fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until a nice sear forms.
7. Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Szechuan-Style Steamed Red Fish

This Szechuan-Style Steamed Red Fish recipe is a flavorful and aromatic Chinese dish that combines the richness of fish with the boldness of Szechuan peppercorns. With its simplicity in preparation, this dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 red fish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. Set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Add fish fillets to the pan; cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.
5. Place fish in steamer basket; pour soy sauce mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crispy Skin Redfish with Spicy Mango Salsa

Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this easy-to-make recipe. Pan-seared redfish is crisped to perfection and served with a tangy and sweet spicy mango salsa.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Spicy Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 cup red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tbsp lime juice
+ 1 tsp honey
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each redfish fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear redfish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until skin is crispy.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Stir well.
7. Serve redfish with Spicy Mango Salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Redfish Tacos with Jalapeño Slaw

Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy recipe, featuring pan-seared redfish, crispy tortillas, and a bold jalapeño slaw.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Jalapeño Slaw (see below)

Jalapeño Slaw:

– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place redfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove fish from marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with redfish, slaw, and your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Thai Red Curry Red Fish Stew

A flavorful and spicy Thai-inspired stew that combines the sweetness of red fish with the bold flavors of red curry paste.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb red fish (such as tilapia or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
2. Add red fish pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from pot.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return fish to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blackened Red Snapper with Garlic Butter

This bold and flavorful dish is a twist on traditional blackening, with the addition of rich garlic butter to elevate the flavor profile.

Ingredients:
• 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the red snapper fillets with salt, pepper, and blackening seasoning.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Place the seasoned fish in the skillet, skin side up. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the skin is crispy.
5. Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with garlic butter spooned on top.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total

Oven-Roasted Redfish with Harissa Glaze

Oven-Roasted Redfish with Harissa Glaze: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the delicate flavor of redfish with the spicy kick of harissa.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the redfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the fish in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the fish is cooking, mix together the harissa, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
7. After the fish has roasted for 10 minutes, brush the harissa glaze all over the top of each fillet.
8. Return the fish to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
10. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Spicy Red Fish Soup with Coconut and Lemongrass

This creamy and aromatic soup combines the richness of coconut milk, the warmth of lemongrass, and the spiciness of red fish to create a truly unique and delicious experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound red fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until they flake easily with a fork.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Grilled Redfish with Chipotle Marinade

Savor the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this spicy and savory grilled redfish recipe.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, olive oil, garlic, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Place redfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes

Redfish Ceviche with Habanero and Lime

Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this refreshing ceviche, featuring redfish marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, habanero peppers, and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound redfish fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 habanero peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the redfish pieces and lime juice.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, scallions, and habanero peppers to the bowl.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the ceviche chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Cajun Redfish étouffée

A classic Cajun dish from Louisiana, étouffée is a flavorful stew originating from the African and French cuisines. This recipe uses redfish, a mild-flavored fish often found in the Gulf of Mexico, to create a hearty and aromatic meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb redfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fish stock (or water)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add fish stock (or water), whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and add redfish pieces; cook until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve étouffée hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Red Snapper Veracruz with Spicy Tomato Sauce

Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant dish, featuring succulent red snapper, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spoon some of the tomato sauce over each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Redfish Po’ Boy with Spicy Remoulade

Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering sandwich, featuring pan-seared redfish and a tangy remoulade sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)

Spicy Remoulade Sauce:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Dip each redfish fillet in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs seasoned with paprika.
3. Pan-fry the coated fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried fish on hoagie rolls and topping with Spicy Remoulade Sauce.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Steamed Redfish with Chili-Garlic Soy Sauce

Experience the bold flavors of Asia-inspired cuisine with this easy and impressive recipe. Pan-seared redfish is steamed to perfection and served with a savory chili-garlic soy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Place redfish fillets in the steamer basket. Brush the top of each fillet with the soy sauce mixture.
4. Steam redfish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves and a side of your choice.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Redfish Escabeche with Peppers and Onions

This flavorful escabeche is a classic Lowcountry dish that pairs perfectly with grilled or pan-seared redfish. The sweet and tangy combination of peppers, onions, and tomatoes brings out the best in this Southern favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb redfish fillets (or other firm white fish)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and parsley. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Place redfish fillets on top of the escabeche mixture. Cover skillet with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Red Fish Burgers with Sriracha Mayo

Experience the bold flavors of the sea with these spicy red fish burgers, elevated by a tangy Sriracha mayo. Perfect for adventurous eaters and seafood lovers alike!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound red fish fillets (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and any other desired toppings
– Sriracha Mayo:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
3. Coat fish fillets with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Grill fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble burgers with grilled fish, lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and Sriracha mayo.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Redfish Stir-Fry with Chili and Basil

Redfish Stir-Fry with Chili and Basil Recipe

A flavorful and spicy stir-fry recipe that combines the rich flavor of redfish with the heat of chili flakes and the freshness of basil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb redfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the redfish pieces and chili flakes; stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Stir in the chopped basil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering red fish recipes! From grilled and pan-seared options to soups, stews, and even burgers, there’s something for everyone. Try Grilled Red Snapper with Chili Lime Butter, Pan-Seared Redfish with Cajun Spice Rub, or Szechuan-Style Steamed Red Fish. Or, go bold with Spicy Mango Salsa or Jalapeño Slaw. Whether you like it blackened, roasted, or ceviche-style, these recipes will have you hooked on red fish.

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