Want a tasty and simple fish dish? Try blackened catfish. It’s a Southern delight with spicy and smoky taste. Perfect for Cajun cuisine lovers or adding something new to your meals.
To cook, you need catfish fillets, seasoning, and butter. Coat the fish with spice, then fry it. You’ll get a crispy outside and soft inside.
If you like it hot, add more cayenne pepper. Feel free to use other spices too. Make the dish truly yours.
Ready to start cooking? Follow the full recipe below and master blackened catfish easily!
Key Takeaways:
- Blackened catfish is a quick and easy Southern recipe.
- It needs few simple ingredients and little prep time.
- A hot skillet creates the perfect blackened crust.
- Tweak the seasoning for more heat if you like.
- Be careful not to overcook and keep the fish tender.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make delicious blackened catfish, you’ll need:
- Catfish fillets
- Blackened catfish seasoning
- Unsalted butter
To create your own blackened catfish seasoning, mix together kosher salt, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add in paprika, dried parsley, dried oregano, and dried thyme. This mix will make your catfish taste amazing.
Now, let’s move on to the preparation:
- Generously coat each catfish fillet with the spice mix. Make sure the spices cover every fillet for the best taste.
- Heat up a skillet until it’s really hot. This step is key for getting that perfect charred crust.
- Put the fillets in the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side. The spices will darken, creating a tasty crust. Meanwhile, the fish cooks to be tender and flaky.
- When the catfish is fully cooked and looks opaque, take it off the skillet. Then, put it on a plate.
- Drizzle melted unsalted butter over it to boost the flavor.
And there you have it! Your blackened catfish is ready to eat. It’s an easy yet stunning dish that will impress anyone.
Now you know how to make scrumptious blackened catfish. It’s time to cook and enjoy this delightful Southern dish.
Cooking Method
To get the blackened crust on the catfish, you need to cook it on very high heat. Use an outdoor butane burner or a gas grill’s side burner for the best crust.
Cook the catfish fillets in a big cast-iron skillet. Do this for about 3 minutes on each side. This way, the spices stick to the fillets, and the fish is perfectly cooked. The smoke from cooking adds a rich flavor to the dish.
Nutritional Information
Choosing what to eat wisely is key. To help, here’s the nutritional content of blackened catfish:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (4 ounces) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 466 |
| Total Fat | 43g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 18g |
Remember, these numbers might change. It depends on how you cook it and what you use.
Variations and Tips
To give your blackened catfish an extra kick, try adding more cayenne pepper. This will spice up the dish with a Cajun twist. Just make sure not to add too much if spicy isn’t your thing.
“I love my blackened catfish extra spicy. I always add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning, and it adds just the right amount of heat for me!” – Emily S.
“For a unique twist, I like to experiment with other Cajun or Creole spices in my blackened catfish. Adding a dash of smoky paprika or a hint of garlic powder gives it a whole new depth of flavor.” – Mike R.
For the perfect blackened catfish, a hot skillet is crucial. It forms the signature crust and locks in flavors. Using fresh ingredients, like catfish fillets and spices, ensures the best taste.
Avoid overcooking your catfish to prevent a dry texture. Cook it until it’s opaque and flakes with a fork. Remove it from the heat once it reaches this stage to keep it moist and tender.
“I’ve learned that patience is key when making blackened catfish. It’s important to resist the temptation to flip the fillets too soon. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop that beautiful, blackened crust.” – Sarah L.
Remember these variations and tips for a flavorful blackened catfish meal. Whether you like it spicy, smoky, or differently, there’s a version just for you.
Testimonials
People love our blackened catfish recipe. One person changed some spices to make it perfect for their family. They used lemon pepper and Cajun spice. Another person said they always use this recipe for fish. They think it’s the best. These comments show that everyone loves our blackened catfish.
| Reviewer | Review |
|---|---|
| FoodieMom | “I absolutely love this blackened catfish recipe! I like to kick up the spice a notch by adding extra cayenne pepper. It’s the perfect dish to serve for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.” |
| TasteBud23 | “The blackened catfish recipe is a winner! I’ve made it multiple times and it always turns out fantastic. The spices create a flavorful crust on the fish, and the butter adds a delicious richness. Highly recommend!” |
Happy home cooks have shared their love for the blackened catfish recipe. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just having a great meal. Try it and see why it’s rated as one of the top blackened catfish recipes.
Inspiration for Blackened Catfish
The inspiration for blackened catfish came from New Orleans’ amazing cuisine. Just talking about the Jazz Festival and New Orleans’ food makes one crave Cajun flavors.
Blackened catfish offers an easy and enjoyable way to fulfill this craving. It lets you enjoy the special flavors of the area without needing to go there.
This dish is a true taste of the South. It mixes flavors perfectly, hitting your taste buds just right. The smoky scent and spicy taste of blackened catfish are captivating. Eating it feels like you’re right in Cajun country, surrounded by its culinary traditions.
Other Cajun Dishes to Try
If you’re a fan of Cajun flavors, there’s a lot more to savor. Think about giving creole jambalaya a try. It’s a vibrant, traditional rice dish from Louisiana.
Creole jambalaya combines vegetables, meat, and spices. Ingredients often include smoked sausage, chicken, and shrimp. This dish reflects Louisiana’s melting pot of African, French, and Spanish influences.
To make it, you start by sautéing the mix in a big pot. Then, rice, broth, and seasonings are added. It simmers until the rice cooks through and the tastes blend into a comforting meal.
Creole Jambalaya Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to follow:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and celery until soft.
- Cook chicken, sausage, and garlic until the chicken browns.
- Mix in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and creole seasoning. Bring it to a boil.
- Then add rice, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook covered for 5 more minutes, until shrimp is pink.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Feel free to tweak this creole jambalaya. You can add other items like okra, crawfish, or even spices such as cayenne pepper or paprika.
Looking to enjoy a hearty rice dish with Cajun flair? Then, creole jambalaya is perfect. It’s sure to be a hit and bring a taste of Louisiana to your table.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onions (diced) | 1 cup |
| Bell peppers (diced) | 1 cup |
| Celery (diced) | 1 cup |
| Chicken (cubed) | 1 cup |
| Smoked sausage (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 ounces) |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Creole seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Long-grain rice | 2 cups |
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 cup |
Join the Conversation
If you’re curious about a gluten-free lifestyle, join us for a Twitter chat. The author of this article and Whole Foods will host it. You’ll get to share your experiences and ask questions with a special hashtag. It’s a great way to learn from others and discuss healthy eating.
The chat will cover various topics on gluten-free living and cooking. We’ll exchange tips, recipes, and talk about the benefits of this lifestyle. It’s a chance to meet others who value healthy eating as much as you do.
“Hosting this Twitter chat with Whole Foods excites me. As a gluten-free eater, I know the ups and downs of this diet. The chat will let us learn and find new favorite meals together.”
– Jackie Ourman
Joining the chat means you can share your journey and learn new things. If you have questions about ingredients, cooking, or gluten-free products, this chat is for you. You’ll get to talk with experts and others like you.
Upcoming Twitter Chat Details:
- Date: [Insert date]
- Time: [Insert time]
- Hashtag: [Insert hashtag]
Want to join the conversation and share your insights? Then mark your calendar. This is your chance to connect with people who love healthy eating.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and make new connections. We hope to see you at the Twitter chat!
In-Store Cooking Demonstration
Join Jackie Ourman at a Whole Foods Market for a fantastic cooking demo and lunch. This event is a chance to learn how to make delicious blackened catfish. You’ll also uncover other gluten-free recipes that are tasty and healthy.
Jackie will show you the steps to create the perfect blackened catfish during the demo. She’ll share tips for getting that smoky flavor. Watch as the catfish fillets turn into a delicious dish before your eyes.
You’ll see more than just catfish. Jackie will show you gluten-free recipes from zesty salads to sweet desserts. Explore new flavors that meet your dietary needs.
Then, enjoy the best part. You will eat a delicious lunch with Jackie and others after the demo. It’s a great mix of learning, community, and yummy food.
Event Details
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time]
Location: [Whole Foods Market location]
Email: [Email address]
Space is limited for this cooking demo, so sign up early! Email us at [Email address] with your info. Don’t miss this chance to boost your cooking skills and have a great meal.
We can’t wait to see you at the demo! It will be an unforgettable dining experience.
| Event Details | Date | Time | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Store Cooking Demonstration | [Date] | [Time] | [Whole Foods Market location] | [Email address] |
Conclusion
Blackened catfish is full of flavor and easy to cook. It brings the taste of the South right to your table. With spicy seasonings and a smoky taste, it’s sure to be a hit. If you love Cajun food or want to try something new, this dish is a great choice. It makes for a quick and delicious meal. Go ahead, try it and enjoy the rich southern flavors.
Testimonials
I tried the blackened catfish recipe and it was amazing! The spices were just right, adding the perfect heat,” said Sarah.
“This blackened catfish is now a favorite for our weekly meals. It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make!” Michael noted.
Variations and Tips
Want your blackened catfish spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to try different herbs and spices too. This way, you can make the flavor your own.
To get the perfect blackened crust, your skillet must be very hot. Let the spices char a bit for that smoky taste. This technique is key to its unique flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 466 | 43g | 2g | 18g |
The nutritional values are estimations and can change based on ingredients and how you cook them.
Blackened catfish stands out for its bold taste and easy cooking. It’s likely to become a beloved dish in your kitchen. So, get your ingredients ready, heat up your skillet, and dive into this Southern classic’s goodness.
About the Author
Meet Jackie Ourman, a skilled chef who created this blackened catfish recipe. She loves exploring various cuisines and sharing her food adventures. Jackie works with Whole Foods to share healthy, tasty recipes.
Follow Jackie on social media for the latest in her cooking world. You’ll find creative recipes and helpful tips. Her community of food lovers is a great place to explore new flavors and dishes.
Jackie helps cooks of all levels make amazing meals. Try her blackened catfish and surprise your loved ones. Her passion for food will inspire and improve your cooking.
