What ingredients do you need for Classic Citrus & Herb Smoked Tilapia?

You need 11 ingredients: Tilapia fillets, 4 cups water, ¼ cup kosher salt, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 lemons or limes (juice), Fresh dill or parsley, Olive oil, Paprika, Garlic powder, Onion powder, Lemon pepper.

What temperature do you cook Classic Citrus & Herb Smoked Tilapia at?

Cook at 300°F / 150°C. Use Alder, Apple, or Pecan for the best smoke flavor.

Smoked Fish

Classic Citrus & Herb Smoked Tilapia

Name: Classic Citrus & Herb Smoked Tilapia
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 2-4 servings
Ingredients: Tilapia fillets; 4 cups water; ¼ cup kosher salt; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 lemons or limes (juice); Fresh dill or parsley; Olive oil; Paprika; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Lemon pepper

The most forgiving method. The acid in the citrus keeps the flesh firm and flavorful.

Time: 30 min brine + 30 min smoke

Temp: 300°F / 150°C

Wood: Alder, Apple, or Pecan

Ingredients

Tilapia fillets
4 cups water
¼ cup kosher salt
¼ cup brown sugar
2 lemons or limes (juice)
Fresh dill or parsley
Olive oil
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Lemon pepper

Brine (30 mins)

Mix 4 cups water, ¼ cup kosher salt, ¼ cup brown sugar, juice of 2 lemons/limes, and a few sprigs of fresh dill or parsley. Submerge fillets for 30 minutes. No longer — they get mushy.

Drying

Pat extremely dry. Let sit uncovered in the fridge for 30–60 mins to form a pellicle (tacky surface) so the smoke adheres properly.

Seasoning

Lightly coat with olive oil, then apply a seafood rub — or mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon pepper.

Smoke

Smoke at 300°F (150°C) using a mild wood. Cook until internal temp hits 145°F (63°C). For thin fillets, this takes about 20–30 minutes.