Flavorful Fish Seasoning for Perfectly Spiced Fish Fillets Recipe
Introduction
This flavorful fish seasoning blend is perfect for adding a warm, aromatic touch to any fish fillets. With a mix of spices and smoked paprika, it enhances the natural taste of the fish while keeping preparation simple and quick.

Ingredients
- 1 tsp celery salt (or 3/4 tsp salt)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp mace
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground clove
- 1/8 tsp ginger powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (or pure chili powder)
- 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
- 750g / 1.5lb fish fillets, skinless and boneless (flathead recommended)
- 45g / 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 30g / 2 tbsp extra unsalted butter (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine all the dry seasoning ingredients thoroughly. This mixture will keep for months in an airtight container and is enough for 750g / 1.5lb of fish.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the fish fillets and gently rub it in to coat well.
- Step 3: Heat 30g (2 tbsp) of unsalted butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 4: Cook half of the seasoned fish fillets until golden on each side, adjusting the time based on thickness, then transfer to a plate.
- Step 5: Melt the remaining butter in the skillet and cook the rest of the fish fillets in the same way.
- Step 6: Allow the cooked fish to rest for 3 minutes before serving.
- Step 7: (Optional) For extra richness, melt the additional 30g (2 tbsp) of butter over medium heat until foaming, then drizzle it over the fish before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use this seasoning on any white fish such as cod, haddock, or snapper for a quick flavor boost.
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of smoked chili powder.
- If fresh fish is not available, this seasoning works well with frozen fillets, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when serving to brighten the flavors.
Storage
Store the dry seasoning blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Cooked fish is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this seasoning on skin-on fish fillets?
Yes, the seasoning works well on skin-on fillets too. Just be sure to cook skin side down first to crisp the skin properly.
Is the extra butter necessary?
The extra butter is optional but adds a delicious finishing touch and richness when drizzled over the cooked fish. You can skip it for a lighter dish.
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Flavorful Fish Seasoning for Perfectly Spiced Fish Fillets Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful homemade fish seasoning blend perfect for enhancing any fish fillets, paired with a simple pan-fried butter cooking method that results in golden, tender fish fillets with an optional rich butter sauce.
Ingredients
Seasoning
- 1 tsp celery salt (or 3/4 tsp salt)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp mace
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground clove
- 1/8 tsp ginger powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (or pure chilli powder)
- 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
Fish and Cooking
- 750g (1.5 lb) fish fillets, skinless and boneless (e.g., flathead)
- 45g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 30g (2 tbsp) extra unsalted butter for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Make Fish Seasoning: In a bowl, combine celery salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, mustard powder, mace, allspice, ground clove, ginger powder, cayenne pepper, and ground cardamom. Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight container. This seasoning quantity is enough for 750g fish.
- Season the Fish: Sprinkle the prepared seasoning generously over both sides of the fish fillets. Lightly rub to evenly coat the fish with the seasoning blend.
- Cook First Batch: Melt 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the seasoned fish fillets and cook until golden on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove cooked fish to a plate.
- Cook Remaining Fish: Melt the remaining 15g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter in the skillet and cook the remaining fish fillets the same way until golden and cooked through. Remove fish to the plate.
- Rest the Fish: Let the cooked fish rest for 3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for optimal tenderness.
- Prepare Extra Butter Sauce (Optional): Add the optional 30g (2 tbsp) extra unsalted butter to the skillet over medium heat. Melt until foaming and lightly bubbling, then drizzle the warm butter sauce over the rested fish fillets when serving.
Notes
- The seasoning blend keeps for months stored in an airtight container, making it convenient for future use.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Use skinless, boneless fish fillets like flathead for best results, but other white fish fillets work well.
- Cook the fish in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even golden color and proper cooking.
- Resting the fish before serving helps retain moisture and improves texture.
- The extra butter sauce is optional but adds a rich flavor that complements the seasoned fish beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Australian
Keywords: fish seasoning, pan-fried fish, homemade seasoning, easy fish recipe, buttery fish, seafood seasoning blend

