Cuban Fish Recipes That Bring Flavor to Your Table

Originally posted on February 25, 2015 @ 6:43 am

Cuban cuisine is a vibrant blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors, and when it comes to seafood, the island offers some truly mouthwatering dishes. Cuban fish recipes are celebrated for their fresh, zesty, and aromatic qualities, often featuring bold ingredients like garlic, citrus, and smoky spices.

Whether you’re craving a simple grilled fish with mojo sauce or a rich, tomato-based fish stew, Cuban recipes provide a perfect balance of taste and tradition that will transport your palate straight to Havana.

In this post, we’ll explore several classic Cuban fish recipes that are easy to prepare yet packed with authentic flavor. Get ready to dive into the warmth and passion of Cuban cooking with these delicious fish dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cuban fish recipes are beloved for their simplicity and freshness. They emphasize the natural flavor of the fish, enhanced with bright, tangy marinades like mojo – a garlicky citrus sauce that is a Cuban staple.

These recipes often require minimal ingredients but deliver maximum taste, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Additionally, Cuban fish dishes are wonderfully versatile. You can grill, bake, or stew your fish, and the flavors adapt beautifully to different types of white fish such as snapper, grouper, or mahi-mahi.

Plus, they pair wonderfully with classic Cuban sides, enhancing your dining experience with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs fresh white fish fillets (snapper, grouper, or mahi-mahi)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or fish stock

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl for marinating
• Sharp knife for slicing and filleting
• Grill or grill pan (alternatively, a baking dish)
• Cast iron skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula for flipping fish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the mojo marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed.
2. Marinate the fish: Add the fish fillets to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours to prevent the citrus from cooking the fish.
3. Preheat your grill or oven: If grilling, heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Cook the fish: Remove the fish from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, bake the fish in a greased baking dish for 12-15 minutes.
5. Sauté the onions and jalapeño: While the fish cooks, heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the sliced onions and jalapeño until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the white wine or fish stock to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
7. Serve: Place the cooked fish on a serving platter, spoon the sautéed onions and jalapeño sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Tips & Variations

For an authentic Cuban twist, try serving your fish with yellow rice and black beans, or plantain chips for a crunchy side.

If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeño or substitute with sweet bell peppers. For a smoky depth, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the marinade.

Want to try something different? Swap the white fish for shrimp or scallops in the same mojo marinade for a quick and delicious seafood variation.

For a heartier dish, try slow-cooked vegetable sides to complement your Cuban fish perfectly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cuban fish dishes shine when served with traditional sides. Consider pairing your fish with yellow rice and black beans for a complete Cuban meal.

Fresh, fried, or baked plantains add a lovely balance of sweetness and texture. A crisp green salad with avocado and tomatoes complements the citrusy mojo flavors beautifully.

For beverages, a cold Cuban mojito or a refreshing lime agua fresca will enhance the overall dining experience. Looking for more delicious and vibrant recipes?

Check out our Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious or our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for additional flavorful ideas.

Conclusion

Cuban fish recipes offer a delightful fusion of fresh, bold flavors that are both simple and satisfying. By using basic ingredients like garlic, citrus juice, and aromatic spices, you can create dishes that truly capture the spirit of Cuban cooking.

Whether grilled, baked, or simmered in a flavorful sauce, fish prepared Cuban-style is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal.

These recipes are approachable for cooks of all levels and perfect for anyone looking to bring a bit of Caribbean sunshine to their kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of fish or spice levels to make the dish your own.

For more easy and tasty meal ideas, explore our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or try a comforting Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Enjoy your journey into Cuban cuisine and happy cooking!

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