Corn Meal Catfish
Crispy catfish fillets coated with seasoned cornmeal and Parmesan offer a flavorful, golden-brown seafood dish perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with a hint of basil.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg and water in a pie plate until blended.
- Spoon flour onto waxed paper; in a separate waxed paper, mix cornmeal, Parmesan cheese, basil, and salt.
- Dredge each fish fillet in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place 2 fillets in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown on the first side.
- Turn the fillets over and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the fillets from the skillet and keep warm.
- Repeat with the remaining fillets, adding more oil if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture. You can substitute the catfish with tilapia or cod if desired. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend and cornmeal. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fillets to achieve a crispy coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn meal catfish with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal. A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors, while a tartar sauce or remoulade can elevate the dish. This dish pairs beautifully with Tomato-Shrimp Dip for an appetizer, making it perfect for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover catfish fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fillets soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Meal Catfish contains roughly 131 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1948mg per serving (85% 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 catfish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before dredging. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy texture.
What can I serve with corn meal catfish?
Corn meal catfish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light pasta salad. For a classic approach, serve with French fries or hushpuppies for a true Southern experience.
How can I make the coating more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the coating, try adding additional herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or oregano to the cornmeal mixture. This will give the catfish a more complex flavor profile and an aromatic touch.
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).