Cheese And Fish Tacos: The Perfect Pairing

Fish tacos are a delicious meal, but what type of cheese should you use? While there are many options, some of the most popular choices include cotija, feta, and cheddar. For a spicier option, you could try habanero cheddar or pepper jack. If you're feeling creative, you could even experiment with feta for a Greek twist or blue cheese for a Buffalo-style taco. So, the next time you're making fish tacos, don't be afraid to get cheesy!

Fish Taco Sauce Ideas

A good sauce can make or break a taco. Here are some ideas for sauces to accompany your fish tacos.

Garlic Lime Crema

A garlic lime crema is a popular choice to accompany fish tacos. This sauce is made with sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and Sriracha. The Sriracha can be adjusted to taste, and the sauce can be served in a squeeze bottle for added fun.

Chipotle Lime Crema

For a slightly different take on the lime crema, try adding chipotle for a smoky flavor.

Baja Sauce

Baja sauce is similar to the fish taco sauce recipe above but usually includes cilantro and blended bell pepper. It was a popular sauce option at Taco Bell in the 90s and 00s but has since been discontinued.

Spinach Dip

One reviewer substituted spinach dip for sour cream in the garlic lime crema recipe and enjoyed the result.

Creamy Cilantro Dressing

A creamy cilantro dressing could also be a good option for a fish taco sauce.

Cheese

While not a sauce, cheese is worth mentioning as a possible topping for fish tacos. Cotija cheese is a popular choice, as it is a Mexican cheese that crumbles easily and is similar to feta but milder and less salty. However, some people feel that cheese does not belong on tacos, as it can dull the bright, spicy flavors.

Best Fish to Use

Fish tacos are typically made with a mild-flavoured, white, flaky fish. Some good options include:

• Cod
• Halibut
• Tilapia
• Rockfish
• Mahi-mahi
• Catfish
• Snapper
• Haddock
• Alaskan Pollack
• Shrimp
• Salmon
• Corvina
• Cutthroat trout
• Barramundi
• Mahi-mahi
• Crappie

You can also use frozen fish, which can be baked in the oven or cooked in a skillet.

If you're feeling adventurous, you could try making Greek fish tacos with feta cheese or a Buffalo-style taco with blue cheese.

Toppings and Sides

Cheese

Fish tacos are usually topped with Cotija cheese, a Mexican cheese that has a mild flavour and crumbles when grated. It is similar to feta but less salty. However, some people prefer to use feta, queso fresco, or even a sharp cheddar. If you like spicy food, habanero cheddar or pepper jack cheese will add an extra kick to your tacos.

Other Toppings

Fish tacos are usually served in corn or flour tortillas, with toppings such as:

• Shredded cabbage or coleslaw
• Pico de gallo
• Avocado or guacamole
• Pickled red onions
• Cilantro
• Lime crema or lime wedges
• Spicy mayo or chipotle lime crema
• Mango or pineapple salsa

Sides

Fish tacos can be served with:

• Chips and salsa
• Coleslaw
• Fresh fruit
• Corn
• Guacamole
• Cilantro lime rice

Cooking Methods

There are several ways to cook fish for tacos, and the method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the equipment you have available. Here are some of the most common methods:

Grilling

If you're using a grill, preheat it to medium-high and lightly oil the grates or use a grill basket. Cook the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, keeping a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for 2-3 minutes, then lightly grease the insert. Add the fish in a single layer and cook for 6-7 minutes.

Baking/Oven-Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking dish with aluminium foil. Lightly grease the foil with cooking spray, then add the fish in a single layer and bake for 3-5 minutes per side.

Stovetop

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the fish in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pan, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.

Skillet/Pan-Frying

Heat canola oil in a large skillet or grill pan over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the fish to the pan and immediately add butter. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side.

Broiling

If you want to add a little browning to your fish, you can broil it for 3-5 minutes at the end of the cooking process.

Cast Iron Skillet

Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large cast-iron skillet. Add the fish to the hot pan and cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Frozen Fish

If you're short on time, you can use frozen breaded fish fillets. Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or cook them in a skillet with a little vegetable oil.

Tips for Success:

• Keep an eye on the fish while it's cooking to avoid overcooking. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent/raw in the centre.
• For a zesty flavour, marinate the fish for 30-45 minutes before cooking.
• Warm your tortillas before serving. You can quickly toast corn tortillas on a dry skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.

Cheese Types

When it comes to choosing a cheese to go with fish tacos, there are several options that can enhance the flavour of the dish. Here are some of the most popular choices:

Cotija Cheese

Cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese that is often used in fish tacos. It has a mild flavour and crumbles easily, similar to feta but less salty. It is an inexpensive option that can be found in the refrigerated cheese section of grocery stores. Cotija cheese adds a salty, sharp taste to the tacos and can also be used to make a sauce.

Queso Fresco

Queso fresco is another Mexican cheese that pairs well with fish tacos. It has a mild, fresh flavour and a soft, creamy texture. It crumbles easily, making it a great topping for tacos.

Feta Cheese

Feta is a salty and tangy cheese that can be used as a substitute for Cotija cheese. It has a stronger flavour than Cotija, so a little goes a long way. Feta adds a creamy texture and a sharp taste to the tacos.

Cheddar Cheese

For those who enjoy a sharper taste, sharp cheddar cheese is an excellent choice for fish tacos. It has a more pronounced flavour that can stand up to the other ingredients in the taco. Habanero cheddar or pepper jack cheddar can add a spicy kick to the dish.

Other Cheeses

Other cheeses that can be used in fish tacos include ricotta salata, farmer's cheese, and mozzarella. These cheeses have mild flavours and can complement the fish without overwhelming it.

Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference and the desired flavour profile of the fish tacos. Some people may prefer the tanginess of feta or the sharpness of cheddar, while others may opt for the milder flavours of Cotija or queso fresco. Experimenting with different cheeses can be a fun way to find your favourite combination.

Frequently asked questions