Connecticut Blackened Bluefish Tacos on the Arteflame

Ingredients

• 2 bluefish fillets
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green & red mix)
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build and preheat the grill for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the blackened bluefish

1. Coat the bluefish fillets with melted butter.
2. Generously sprinkle blackening seasoning over both sides of the fish.

Step 3: Grill the bluefish

1. Place the fillets on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side to achieve a perfect sear.
2. Move the fillets to the flat cooktop near the outer edge to finish cooking until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
3. Remove from the grill when the temperature reaches 120°F as the fish will continue cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the slaw

1. On the flat cooktop, lightly grill the shredded cabbage and carrots for 1-2 minutes, just until slightly tender.
2. Mix with chopped cilantro in a bowl.

Step 5: Make the tangy sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, and salt.

Step 6: Warm the tortillas

1. Place tortillas on the warm flat top cooktop for 30 seconds per side.

Step 7: Assemble the tacos

1. Break the grilled bluefish into chunks and place them in the warm tortillas.
2. Top with grilled slaw, sliced avocado, and drizzle with the tangy sauce.
3. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips

• Use fresh bluefish for the best flavor and texture.
• Preheat the tortillas to make them pliable and prevent cracking.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more or less blackening seasoning and hot sauce.

Variations

• Cajun Bluefish Tacos: Use Cajun seasoning and add grilled onions and bell peppers.
• Sweet & Spicy Bluefish Tacos: Drizzle with honey and add jalapeño slices for a sweet heat balance.
• Asian-Inspired Bluefish Tacos: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil in the slaw.
• Mediterranean Bluefish Tacos: Add feta cheese, diced cucumbers, and tzatziki sauce.
• Tex-Mex Bluefish Tacos: Top with pico de gallo and shredded cheddar cheese.

Conclusion

Connecticut Blackened Bluefish Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare entirely on the Arteflame grill. The high heat sear locks in juices, and the flat cooktop ensures an even cook for ultimate tastiness. Enjoy these bold, fresh tacos today!

Best Pairings

• Grilled street corn with cotija cheese
• Fresh mango salsa
• Chilled margarita or a crisp pilsner beer
• Spicy roasted sweet potatoes