Halibut Enchiladas: A Mexican-Inspired Seafood Recipe with Fresh Pacific Halibut

November 04, 2024

Halibut Enchiladas: Recipe

If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful twist on classic enchiladas, these halibut enchiladas are the perfect choice. Combining the mild, flaky texture of Pacific halibut with traditional Mexican spices and ingredients, this dish brings together the best of both worlds. Perfect for seafood lovers, these halibut enchiladas are an exciting, versatile dish that’s great for family dinners or entertaining guests. This guide will take you through a step-by-step process, along with tips for choosing the freshest halibut.

If you’re looking for premium-quality halibut, check out Global Seafoods’ fresh Pacific halibut fillets to ensure the highest quality in your recipes.

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Why Halibut is Perfect for Mexican-Inspired Dishes

Halibut’s firm, yet tender texture and mild flavor make it ideal for enchiladas, as it pairs beautifully with bold spices without overpowering the dish. Halibut is also a great source of lean protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, making it both a nutritious and delicious option for Mexican-inspired dishes.

"Pacific halibut is not only one of the most sustainable fish choices, but its mild flavor and texture make it versatile for global recipes," says the International Pacific Halibut Commission.

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Ingredients for Halibut Enchiladas

Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor of these halibut enchiladas. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Halibut Filling:

• 1 lb Pacific halibut fillets (or try these fresh halibut cheeks)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling:

• 8-10 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

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Step-by-Step Recipe for Halibut Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Halibut Filling

1. Cook the Halibut: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the halibut fillets with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Sauté: Place the halibut in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily. Once cooked, use a fork to shred the halibut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Add Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, and spinach if desired. Sauté until softened, then mix in the shredded halibut. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

For the freshest halibut, try Global Seafoods’ Pacific halibut fillets.

Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed, then set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
2. Fill and Roll: Place a small amount of the halibut mixture in each tortilla, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the enchiladas for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

For additional ideas and video guides, visit Global Seafoods’ YouTube channel for quick tutorials on preparing seafood dishes.

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Tips for the Best Halibut Enchiladas

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Halibut: Fresh Pacific halibut brings out the best flavor in this recipe. Global Seafoods offers high-quality halibut that’s perfect for cooking.
2. Warm Tortillas Before Rolling: Warming the tortillas helps prevent cracking when assembling the enchiladas.
3. Customize the Spices: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.

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Health Benefits of Halibut Enchiladas

Halibut enchiladas not only bring unique flavors but are also packed with nutrients. Here’s why this dish is a healthy choice:

• High in Protein: Halibut is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Halibut is rich in Omega-3s, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Low in Calories: Using corn tortillas and fresh ingredients keeps the calorie count lower, making this a lighter Mexican-inspired meal.

For a gourmet experience, try Global Seafoods’ halibut steaks, known for their tenderness and flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Halibut Enchiladas

1. Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe?
Yes, frozen halibut can be used. Thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the filling.

2. What other fish can I use instead of halibut?
Cod, haddock, or tilapia can be substituted, but halibut’s mild flavor and firm texture are ideal for enchiladas.

3. How do I store leftover enchiladas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the enchiladas without the sauce, cover, and refrigerate. Add sauce and cheese just before baking.

5. What side dishes go well with halibut enchiladas?
Serve with rice, black beans, guacamole, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Halibut enchiladas are a fantastic way to enjoy the mild, flaky texture of Pacific halibut while bringing a flavorful Mexican-inspired twist to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. For the freshest halibut, check out Global Seafoods, offering premium halibut fillets, steaks, and cheeks that make any meal special.

For more seafood recipes, cooking tips, and video tutorials, don’t forget to subscribe to Global Seafoods’ YouTube channel for expert advice and inspiration.

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