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Tikin Xic

Name: Tikin Xic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Tikin Xic

Mariscos • Mexico

140

KCAL

PROTEIN (G)

CARBS (G)

FAT (G)

Data source: MexicanCalorie

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About Tikin Xic

Pescado marinado en achiote y naranja agria, envuelto en hoja de plátano y asado — costa yucateca.

How to Make Tikin Xic

Versión tradicional y saludable con fotos paso a paso · 35 min en total · 2 porciones

Ver receta completa →

How to Make Tikin Xic (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

Medium

Tikin Xic, pronounced 'teekeen sheek', is a celebrated seafood dish from the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, renowned for its vibrant flavors and ancient Mayan heritage. Featuring fresh fish marinated in achiote (annatto) and citrus, then wrapped in banana leaves and baked or grilled, Tikin Xic offers a taste of Mexico’s coastal traditions. The dish's name means 'dry fish' in the Mayan language, but its preparation keeps the fish moist, tender, and infused with aromatic spices. This healthy Tikin Xic recipe captures the bold, earthy flavors of the Yucatán while keeping calories low, making it ideal for anyone tracking their nutrition. The combination of lean white fish, citrus juices, and traditional spices creates a dish that's light, protein-rich, and brimming with regional color. Whether you’re exploring Mexican cuisine for the first time or revisiting a Yucatecan classic, Tikin Xic is an excellent choice for a nutritious, flavorful meal that connects you to the heart of Mexico’s culinary heritage.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly

Ingredients(for 1 fillet (about 120g) with vegetables)

2 fillets (120g each) White fish fillets (grouper or snapper) (Use any firm, fresh white fish)
1 tablespoon Achiote paste (Recado rojo)
1/4 cup Fresh orange juice (Preferably sour orange (naranja agria))
2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
2 Garlic cloves (Finely minced)
2 large pieces Banana leaves (For wrapping, or use foil as substitute)
1/4 medium Red onion (Thinly sliced)
1 small Tomato (Sliced)
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground)
1 teaspoon Olive oil (Optional, for brushing) - optional
1 tablespoon Epazote or cilantro (Chopped, for garnish) - optional

Instructions

1
Prepare the achiote marinade by mixing achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5 minutes
For best flavor, use fresh citrus and high-quality achiote paste.
2
Pat fish fillets dry. Coat both sides generously with the achiote marinade. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinate up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3
Rinse banana leaves under hot water to soften. Pat dry. Place a leaf on a work surface and lay one fish fillet in the center.
2 minutes
If banana leaves aren’t available, use parchment paper or foil.
4
Top each fillet with sliced red onion and tomato. Optionally drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
2 minutes
Layer vegetables thinly to ensure even cooking.

Why This Dish is Healthy

This Tikin Xic recipe is a healthy choice thanks to its emphasis on fresh fish, natural spices, and minimal oil. It’s low in calories and saturated fat, making it perfect for weight management and balanced nutrition. The marinating process enhances flavor without adding extra calories, and the use of banana leaves ensures gentle, moist cooking. Paired with vegetables, Tikin Xic is an ideal meal for anyone seeking delicious, authentic Mexican food that aligns with a healthy lifestyle.

Tikin Xic is a nutrient-dense, low-calorie seafood dish rich in lean protein, providing 22g of protein per serving with just 4g of fat and 3g of carbohydrates. The use of white fish ensures a high-quality source of omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals like selenium and phosphorus. Citrus juice adds vitamin C, while vegetables contribute dietary fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. This meal supports heart health, muscle maintenance, and immune function without excess calories.

Pro Tips

💡Tip 1: Marinate the fish longer for a more intense flavor.
💡Tip 2: Use authentic achiote paste for the most traditional taste.
💡Tip 3: Soften banana leaves over open flame or hot water to prevent tearing.

Storage & Serving

Store leftover Tikin Xic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven, keeping the fish wrapped to retain moisture.

Best served: Lunch