Spicy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish
Introduction
Welcome to this delightful recipe for Spicy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish, a dish that is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and texture, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With a crisp and spicy exterior enveloping tender catfish fillets, this recipe has been lovingly adapted from a version originally printed in Everyday Food magazine, ensuring that it caters to modern tastes while remaining true to its roots. Pair it with a side of beans and rice for a complete meal that is sure to please your palate and fill your belly!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 361.1 |
| Total Fat | 20.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 106.5 mg |
| Sodium | 705.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.2 g |
| Protein | 36.2 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornmeal | 2 cups |
| Paprika | ½ cup |
| Ground cumin | ½ cup |
| Cayenne pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh ground black pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Catfish fillets | 2 fillets |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 16 minutes |
| Total Time | 26 minutes |
Instructions
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish or on a large plate, combine the cornmeal, paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful crust that enhances the natural sweetness of the catfish.
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Dredge the Catfish: Take the catfish fillets and dredge them through the cornmeal mixture, ensuring that both sides of the fish are evenly coated. Press gently to ensure that the coating adheres well, which will contribute to that delightful crunch once cooked.
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Heat the Oil: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. The right temperature is crucial, as it helps achieve a perfectly golden crust without burning the cornmeal.
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Cook the Fillets: Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the heated pan. Cook them for approximately 6 to 8 minutes on one side, or until the crust is beautifully browned and crispy. Using a spatula, gently flip the fillets over and continue to cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes on the other side, until the fish is firm to the touch and opaque in color.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, transfer the spicy cornmeal-crusted catfish to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot, ideally alongside a bed of fluffy rice and a side of seasoned beans, to complete this delicious meal.
This Spicy Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish is not just a quick and simple recipe; it is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this wholesome recipe from Love With Recipes!
