Cod Fish Taco Recipe with Cabbage Slaw

This Cod Fish Taco Recipe with Cabbage Slaw Will Have Everyone Asking for Seconds

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, freshly made taco. The crunch of crispy cod, the tangy zing of cabbage slaw, and the soft, toasted corn tortilla create a harmony of textures and flavors that’s irresistible. These cod fish tacos with cabbage slaw are not only delicious but versatile enough to fit various lifestyles, from keto to healthy eating. Let me guide you through this ultimate recipe while sharing a few of my personal experiences along the way.

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

Why Cod Fish Tacos Are a Must-Try

Cod is the unsung hero of seafood tacos. Its mild flavor makes it the perfect canvas for bold spices, and its flaky texture pairs beautifully with a refreshing cabbage slaw. Whether you’re hosting Taco Tuesday or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos bring a touch of seaside charm to your table.

When I first tried making these, I was skeptical about balancing the crispy cod with the creamy slaw, but after a few attempts, I found the perfect proportions and techniques. Trust me, once you taste these tacos, you’ll understand why everyone asks for seconds!

Ingredients for Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Here’s everything you need to create this crowd-pleasing dish:

For the Cod:

1 lb fresh cod fillets

1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto)

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for keto)

Vegetable oil for frying (or spray for air fryer/grill)

For the Cabbage Slaw:

2 cups shredded green cabbage

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp honey (optional for sweetness)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Assembly:

8 small corn tortillas (or low-carb tortillas for keto)

Your favorite sauces (chipotle crema, avocado lime dressing, etc.)

Preparing the Cod Fish Tacos

1. Frying Method for Crispy Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

3. Dip each cod piece into the beaten eggs, then coat it with panko breadcrumbs.

4. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cod until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

2. Air Fryer Option

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

Spray the coated cod pieces with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

3. Grilling for Smoky Flavors

Preheat your grill or Blackstone griddle to medium heat.

Brush the cod fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning mix.

Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until flaky and cooked through.

4. Baking for a Healthier Choice

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Place the coated cod on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

Making the Cabbage Slaw

Combine the green and red cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss until evenly coated. The slaw’s crunchiness and zesty flavor perfectly complement the crispy cod.

Assembling the Tacos

1. Warm your corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.

2. Place a piece of crispy cod in the center of each tortilla.

3. Top with a generous scoop of cabbage slaw.

4. Drizzle with your favorite sauce. I’m partial to chipotle crema for a smoky kick.

5. Serve immediately and watch as everyone dives in!

My Recommended Kitchen Essentials from Amazon

1. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

A cast-iron skillet is perfect for frying cod to golden perfection. Its even heat distribution ensures crispy results every time. Plus, it’s incredibly durable and versatile for other recipes.

Get yours on Amazon here!

2. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

For a healthier cooking option, this air fryer is a game-changer. Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens, and the results are always crispy without excess oil.

Shop the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer now!

3. OXO Good Grips Citrus Juicer

Fresh lime juice is a must for the cabbage slaw, and this citrus juicer makes squeezing limes effortless. It’s easy to clean and compact for storage.

Order your OXO Citrus Juicer today!

Why These Tacos Are Healthy and Keto-Friendly

This recipe is easily adaptable for a variety of dietary needs. By swapping regular flour and breadcrumbs for almond flour and crushed pork rinds, you can make it entirely keto. The air fryer and baked methods reduce fat content, making the tacos a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Cod Fish Tacos

Fresh is Best: Use fresh cod whenever possible. Frozen cod works, but thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid sogginess.

Keep It Crispy: If frying, maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal crispiness.

Sauce It Up: Don’t skimp on the sauce. It’s the finishing touch that ties all the flavors together.

These cod fish tacos with cabbage slaw are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re frying, grilling, baking, or air-frying your cod, the result is a dish that’s sure to impress. The fresh cabbage slaw adds a crunch and tang that elevates the tacos to gourmet status.

So, gather your ingredients, try out the recipe, and prepare to wow your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below – I’d love to hear how they turn out! Happy cooking!