Crispy Catfish Delight

Ingredients

• 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each) 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup cornmeal
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the catfish fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. 3.
   In a separate dish, mix the cornmeal with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. 4.
   Remove the catfish fillets from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
5. 5.
   Dredge the fillets in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. 7.
   Carefully place the coated catfish fillets in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Once cooked, transfer the catfish fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Crispy Catfish Delight hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Catfish fillets — Ensure that the catfish fillets are fresh and of high quality. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the fillets in milk for 30 minutes before marinating to reduce any potential fishy taste.
• Lime juice — Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of lime juice according to your taste preferences.
• Cornmeal — Opt for fine cornmeal for a smoother coating. If you prefer a coarser texture, you can use medium-grind cornmeal.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornmeal mixture.
• To ensure a crispy coating, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the catfish fillets. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
• Serve the Crispy Catfish Delight with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a side of tartar sauce or spicy aioli for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Catfish Delight as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or coleslaw. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown catfish fillets on a platter, placing them diagonally for an appealing visual effect. Serve with a wedge of lime on the side for guests to squeeze over the fish.