Spicy Chipotle Tartar Sauce for the Ultimate Fish Sandwich

Are you tired of the same old fish sandwich? Do you want something with a little more flavor and spice? Look no further than this Grilled Grouper Sandwich with Chipotle Tartar Sauce recipe!

This recipe takes the classic fish sandwich and gives it an upgrade with perfectly grilled grouper fillets and a homemade chipotle tartar sauce that packs a flavorful punch. This recipe is perfect for those who love seafood dishes and want to take their taste buds to the next level.

Grilled grouper is the key ingredient in this recipe because it has a delicate, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the crackling fish tacos or the delicious baja fish tacos. This way you can be creative with different textures and paired flavors. The addition of chipotle chile in adobo lends a spicy kick to this dish that will definitely notch up your fish game.

Whether you’re grilling for a summer get-together, having a cozy dinner at home, or just looking to mix up your seafood routine, this dish is sure to impress. So fire up your grill and get ready for an unforgettable fish sandwich experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce
Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce

Attention all seafood lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that will take your taste buds to the edge of the sea, then you’ll definitely love this Grilled Grouper Sandwich with Chipotle Tartar Sauce. The combination of fresh ingredients and fiery flavor makes this recipe an instant crowd-pleaser.

Firstly, this recipe features one of the most delicious fish varieties out there: grouper. Grouper fillets are known for their delicate, mild flavor that easily absorbs other flavors. When grilled, this white, flaky fish not only looks appetizingly but tastes phenomenal.

The homemade chipotle tartar sauce used in this recipe is an unexpected treat that enhances the dish’s appeal. It’s a unique blend of creamy mayonnaise, diced celery, and red onion, with smoky notes of canned chipotle chile in adobo. This sauce takes the simplicity of a casual fish sandwich to a whole new level by giving it an irresistible blackened char and bold flavor.

The accompaniments to this dish including Napa cabbage leaves, tomatoes, and red onions give a refreshing crunchiness to the sandwich which balances its bold seasoning. Another excellent advantage is its versatility; if you don’t like grouper or have trouble finding it, you can replace it with delicious alternatives like sea bass or mahi-mahi fillets.

But wait, there’s more good news! Not only is it delectable but also perfect for busy weeknights as it takes minimal effort to prepare. If you’re looking for something more indulgent or a quick high-quality meal at home before hitting fishing piers or strolling on the sandbanks under sunset then this recipe is ideal.

So there you have it – tender and juicy grilled grouper sandwich topped with an alluring chipotle tartar sauce are definite mealtime game-changers! Enjoy making these sandwiches at home and experience tacos chipotle tartar down south in the comfort of your own kitchen using this recipe – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredient List

 Bite into the perfect summer sandwich with grilled grouper and chipotle tartar sauce.
Bite into the perfect summer sandwich with grilled grouper and chipotle tartar sauce.

Ingredients for the grilled grouper sandwich:

  • 4 grouper fillets
  • 1 tsp lemon pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 napa cabbage leaves
  • 1 red onion, quartered
  • 4 slices tomatoes

Ingredients for the chipotle tartar sauce:

  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp minced canned chipotle
  • 1 tbsp canned chipotle chile in adobo, minced
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • 1 tbsp minced onion
  • 1 tbsp diced celery
  • 2 tbsp dill pickle relish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional ingredients for serving the sandwich:

  • Buns or bread of your choice
  • Additional lettuce or cabbage leaves
  • Sliced avocado, jalapeño, or any other toppings of your choice

Note: You can adjust the amount of chipotle chile in adobo according to your preference. Add more for a spicier, smokier flavor.

The Recipe How-To

 Impress your taste buds and your friends with this delicious, easy-to-make sandwich.
Impress your taste buds and your friends with this delicious, easy-to-make sandwich.

Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce Recipe

Grilling the Grouper

  1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
  2. Rub lemon pepper on both sides of the grouper fillets.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Grill the grouper fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  5. Remove from the grill and set aside to assemble the sandwich.

Pro Tip: Remember, it is essential to preheat your grill before cooking! That way, the fish cooks evenly, and you get those beautiful golden grill marks.

Making The Chipotle Tartar Sauce

  1. In a small mixing bowl, mix 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of dill pickle relish, 2 tablespoons of minced onion, 1 tablespoon of minced canned chipotle chile in adobo, and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice.
  2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to use.

Pro Tip: If you want to make the sauce spicy but aren’t sure how much heat your guests can handle, start with a little bit of adobo sauce at first, then add more until you achieve your desired level of heat.

Assembling The Grilled Grouper Sandwiches

  1. Toast two slices of bread until golden brown.
  2. Spread a generous amount of chipotle tartar sauce on both slices of bread.
  3. Add some thinly sliced red onion, sliced tomato, and a few leaves of napa cabbage on top of one slice.
  4. Place the grilled grouper fillet on top of those ingredients and top with another slice of bread.
  5. Press down gently on the sandwich to release some juices.

Pro Tip: For even more flavor, sprinkle some extra lemon pepper seasoning on top of the sandwich.

Now sit back, relax, take a bite out of that delicious Grilled Grouper Sandwich with Chipotle Tartar Sauce while sipping your favourite drink!

Substitutions and Variations

 The crunch of the fresh lettuce and the juicy tomato make the perfect accompaniment to the tender, flavorful grouper.
The crunch of the fresh lettuce and the juicy tomato make the perfect accompaniment to the tender, flavorful grouper.

Variety is the spice of life, and the same is true when it comes to grilled grouper sandwich with chipotle tartar sauce recipe. You can experiment with various ingredients to create your perfect twist on this classic favorite. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to help you switch things up:

– Fish: If you cannot find grouper fillets, any white, flaky fish will do. Sea bass, mahi-mahi, and blackened grouper are all great options.

– Greens: While napa cabbage leaves add an extra crunch to your sandwich, you can use any lettuce variety that fits your preference. Fresh spinach or arugula can also be great alternatives.

– Bread: If you’re bored with traditional buns or rolls, mix it up by using a sliced baguette or ciabatta bread.

– Toppings: In addition to red onions and tomatoes, you can add sliced avocados, cucumber or pickles for an extra zing.

– Heat Level: If you want a spicier kick in your chipotle tartar sauce recipe, add more canned chipotle chile in adobo. Just make sure to taste as you go to ensure your sauce maintains an enjoyable level of heat.

– Vegan version: For a vegan version of this sandwich try swapping out the fish for a fried portobello mushroom or seasoned tofu!

– Gluten-free option: Serve this delicious fish on top of a gluten free bun or try wrapping it in lettuce instead!

Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen – there’s no wrong way to make a grilled grouper sandwich with chipotle tartar sauce recipe! These substitutions and variations will bring excitement back into every bite and give you endless possibilities for making this dish uniquely yours.

Serving and Pairing

 Get ready to grill up some fun with this recipe!
Get ready to grill up some fun with this recipe!

Once you’ve finished grilling your grouper to perfection and whipped up the delicious chipotle tartar sauce, it’s time to serve up your masterpiece!

Let’s start with the serving. I recommend placing a bed of napa cabbage leaves on a plate and adding a generous portion of the grilled grouper fillet on top. Next, garnish the dish with sliced red onion and tomato for a pop of color and freshness. Finally, dollop a big spoonful of that chipotle tartar sauce on top of the fish fillet.

Now, onto pairing. This grilled grouper sandwich pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. For something light and refreshing, consider serving it alongside a crisp salad or some colorful slaw made with thinly-sliced cabbage and carrots.

For something heartier, go for some crispy fries or sweet potato wedges. And if you’re really feeling like indulging, serve up some fish chips – this recipe is versatile enough to work as both a fish sandwich and as fish tacos!

No matter what you choose to pair it with, these grilled grouper sandwiches with chipotle tartar sauce are sure to be a hit at your next seafood dinner party. Just make sure you have plenty of leftovers – they’re just as delicious cold as they are hot off the grill!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 This sandwich is brunch-approved, lunch-approved, and dinner-approved.
This sandwich is brunch-approved, lunch-approved, and dinner-approved.

As much as we enjoy a freshly grilled grouper sandwich with chipotle tartar sauce, we understand that sometimes you need to plan ahead. Thankfully, this recipe can be prepped ahead of time, making it a great option for those who like to meal prep or host gatherings.

If you’re planning on serving the sandwiches later, it’s best to assemble them just before eating. Keep the components of the sandwich separate until you’re ready to eat. This means keeping the grilled grouper fillets, Napa cabbage leaves, sliced tomatoes and red onions in an airtight container in the fridge, while storing the chipotle tartar sauce in a separate container.

If you happen to have leftover grouper sandwiches, or you just want to prepare the sandwiches ahead of time for convenience, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, we must advise against reheating it in the microwave as this may result in a soggy sandwich. Instead, reheat it in a toaster oven or broil it for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Alternatively, if you don’t plan on eating all of the grilled grouper at once, store the cooked fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve again, gently reheat them on a grill or under the broiler until warmed through.

With all these suggestions and tips on storing and reheating your leftovers or pre-made sandwiches, we hope that you’ll continue enjoying these delicious grilled grouper sandwiches with chipotle tartar sauce even after they’ve been prepared ahead of time. So go ahead and fire up your grill – your make-ahead meals are going to be amazing!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Trust us, once you try this sandwich, you'll want to make it all the time.
Trust us, once you try this sandwich, you’ll want to make it all the time.

Are you looking to perfect your Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce recipe? Look no further! Here are some tips to ensure your next seafood sandwich is up to par.

First and foremost, do not overcook your grouper fillets. Overcooked fish becomes tough, dry, and loses its flavor. It’s important to watch the color of the fillets as they cook. When the edges start turning white, it’s time to flip them over. Use a thin spatula and be sure to flip them only once during cooking.

Next, make sure that you properly season the fish fillets with salt and pepper before grilling. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the fish and makes for a more dynamic culinary experience in your mouth.

When making the chipotle tartar sauce, resist the urge to use too much mayonnaise or other ingredients that could dilute the flavor of the chipotle chile in adobo or canned chipotle peppers. A little goes a long way, which ensures a delicious heat level without overpowering other components of this exquisite sauce.

Additionally, avoid overcrowding while grilling to achieve optimum results. Grouper fillets cook relatively quickly, therefore add them in one layer on the grill. Otherwise, piling them on top of each other would lead to uneven cooking, with some underdone portions.

Lastly, choose fresh ingredients whenever possible for optimal taste and texture. If you can’t find fresh Napa cabbage leaves or tomatoes at your local supermarket or open-air market for your sandwich toppings, feel free to substitute them with similarly textured vegetables like lettuce or cucumbers that will preserve that crunchy flavor combination characteristic of good fish tacos.

By following these tips and utilizing quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a perfectly grilled grouper sandwich with chipotle tartar sauce every time – one that keeps your guests asking for more!

FAQ

As with any recipe, there might be some questions or doubts that arise when making this grilled grouper sandwich with chipotle tartar sauce. To address those concerns and make the process even smoother and more enjoyable, I’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions and detailed answers that will help you tackle any potential obstacles. Whether it’s about ingredient substitutions, cooking times, or storage recommendations, this section will provide you with all the information you need to succeed in creating a delicious meal.

What does tartare sauce go with?

Seafood meals such as fish and chips, fish sandwiches, and calamari usually come with a side of tartar sauce. It is a common condiment especially for fried seafood dishes like fish fingers and fried oysters.

Does cream of tartar go in tartar sauce?

Although they may sound similar, cream of tartar and tartar sauce are completely unrelated. Cream of tartar is a fine powder used for baking desserts, such as cookies and meringues. Meanwhile, tartar sauce is a zesty and flavorful condiment typically served with seafood dishes. The two have distinct and separate uses in the kitchen.

How many calories in a grilled grouper sandwich?

This dish provides a nutritional punch in every serving. Each portion delivers a total of 388 calories, with 37% of these calories coming from fat. The dish has a total of 16 grams of fat, with 2.8 grams of this being saturated fat, 2 grams of monounsaturated fat, and 1.9 grams of polyunsaturated fat. It is high in protein, with a whopping 38.5 grams per serving, and has 26.3 grams of carbohydrates, with 5.5 grams of fiber. This dish also contains 73 milligrams of cholesterol, 4.6 milligrams of iron, 783 milligrams of sodium, and 311 milligrams of calcium.

Why is tartar sauce called tartar sauce?

The sauce tartare, known as tartar sauce in English, is believed to have originated in France. It was named after the Tatars, who were a nomadic people that lived in Ukraine and Russia. The French adapted the mayonnaise or aioli based sauce and possibly named it “tartar” after the Tatars.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Grilled Grouper Sandwich with Chipotle Tartar Sauce is a flavorful and versatile recipe that will satisfy your cravings for seafood. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood enthusiast or a novice home cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering.

With simple ingredients like grouper fillets, Napa cabbage leaves, red onion, and tomatoes, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. The addition of chipotle chile in adobo to the tartar sauce adds a spicy kick to this classic recipe, taking your taste buds to another level.

This recipe offers various substitutions and variations, making it perfect for anyone who wants to customize their sandwich just the way they like it. You can pair the sandwich with chips or fries for a complete meal.

Moreover, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for later consumption. This means that you can still enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavor of the grilled grouper sandwich even if you don’t have much time to spare during busy weekdays.

Lastly, if you’re looking for an impressive dish to serve your guests during special occasions or outdoor BBQ parties, then look no further. This recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palate and leave your guests asking for more.

In summary, this Grilled Grouper Sandwich with Chipotle Tartar Sauce Recipe is an excellent addition to any recipe collection. It offers an easy-to-follow process that yields tasty results every time. So why not give it a try today? Trust us; your taste buds will thank you!

Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce

Grilled Grouper Sandwich and Chipotle Tartar Sauce Recipe

Florida grouper sandwiches with a chipotle kick
5 from 5 votes
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: < 30 Mins, Easy, Lunch
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 Sandwiches
Calories: 500kcal

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons diced celery
  • 1 tablespoon minced onion
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon minced canned chipotle chile in adobo
  • 4 (5 ounce) grouper fillets
  • 4 teaspoons lemon pepper
  • 4 kaiser rolls, toasted on grill
  • 1 tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 4 napa cabbage leaves

Instructions

  • To make the tartar sauce, combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and chill 3 hours.
  • Sprinkle grouper with lemon pepper. Grill fillets, covered with grill lid, over medium-high heat (350° to 400°) 4 minutes on each side or until fish flakes with a fork. Place each fillet on a Kaiser roll. Top with Chipotle Tartar Sauce, tomato, onion, and cabbage.

Your own notes

Nutrition

Serving: 295g | Calories: 500kcal | Carbohydrates: 47.8g | Protein: 34.4g | Fat: 18.8g | Saturated Fat: 2.9g | Cholesterol: 63.9mg | Sodium: 789.1mg | Fiber: 2.5g | Sugar: 6g