Cajun Fish
Cajun fish features crispy, seasoned fillets with bold spices, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a flavorful, crunchy meal suitable for casual or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut fins off thawed fish; split fish down the stomach and remove the bone.
- Wash the fish and drain.
- Season the fish with seasoned salt, black pepper, red pepper, and paprika.
- Let the fish stand seasoned for 1 hour.
- Heat Crisco in a skillet.
- Beat eggs in a bowl; pour milk into eggs slowly and beat.
- Pour corn meal into a separate bowl.
- Dip the fish into the milk and egg wash, then immediately roll the fish in corn meal.
- Place the fish in hot oil in the skillet.
- Cover the pan with a lid and fry until brown.
- Turn the fish onto the other side and brown.
- Return the fish to the first side and remove the lid. When the fish is as crisp as desired, remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. If whiting is unavailable, catfish or tilapia can be good substitutes. To achieve a light and crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish. You can also use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornmeal for a different crunch. For a refreshing dip, try pairing this dish with the Festive Shrimp Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cajun fish with a wedge of lemon and a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with rice or a potato salad. For a complete seafood feast, consider serving alongside the Curried Tuna Rice Salad, which complements the flavors of the fish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cajun fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish soggy. For best results, enjoy it fresh!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Fish contains roughly 782 calories, with 20g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (190% of the Daily Value), iron (119% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2180mg per serving (95% 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 frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen whiting, but make sure to fully thaw it and remove any excess moisture before seasoning and frying. This helps achieve a better texture and prevents oil splatter during cooking.
What can I serve with Cajun fish?
Cajun fish is versatile and pairs well with various sides like fried okra, hushpuppies, or a tangy remoulade sauce. For a refreshing option, a simple cucumber and tomato salad works beautifully to balance the spices.
How do I know when the fish is done cooking?
The fish is done when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Additionally, you can use a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
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).