Blackened Drum
Blackened drum fillets feature bold spices with a smoky, spicy flavor profile, perfect for quick, flavorful meals suited for seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Dip 1-inch thick drum fillets in melted sweet cream butter, then sprinkle with the seasoning mixture.
- Drop the seasoned fillets into a very hot cast-iron skillet.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side; thinner fillets require less time.
- Optionally, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet just before adding the fish to prevent sticking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, let the seasoned drum fillets rest for 15-30 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have sweet cream butter, you can substitute with regular unsalted butter or olive oil. Adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the red pepper to suit your taste. Using a cast-iron skillet ensures a great sear, so preheat it properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blackened drum with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness. It pairs beautifully with *Buttered Noodles With Fresh Tomatoes* or a side of sautéed greens. A simple salad or coleslaw would also complement the dish nicely, balancing the spicy flavors with freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blackened drum fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, which helps maintain their crispy texture. Avoid microwave reheating for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackened Drum contains roughly 36 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1460mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other firm white fish like tilapia or catfish as substitutes for drum. Just ensure the fillets are similar in thickness for even cooking times. The seasoning will work well with most fish, creating a delicious blackened flavor.
What can I do if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, you can use a stainless steel or heavy non-stick skillet. Just ensure it’s hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a good sear. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on your pan's heat retention.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, simply decrease the amount of red pepper in the seasoning mix. You can also omit the black pepper or use a mild variety. Pairing with a cooling side like yogurt or a creamy dressing can also balance the heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).