Best 3 Caramel Coated Catfish Recipes
Introducing Caramel-Coated Catfish: A Unique Culinary Journey
Caramel-coated catfish is a culinary masterpiece that combines the sweet and savory flavors of caramel with the delicate texture of catfish. This dish is a delightful fusion of Southern comfort food and Asian-inspired flavors, creating a tantalizing experience for the taste buds. The caramel coating adds a crispy and slightly chewy layer to the catfish, while the fish itself remains tender and flaky. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the versatility of catfish as a culinary ingredient.
In this article, we present two variations of this delectable dish: the classic caramel-coated catfish and a spicy Szechuan caramel-coated catfish. The classic recipe offers a straightforward approach to this dish, allowing you to appreciate the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. The Szechuan variation, on the other hand, adds a fiery kick with the incorporation of Szechuan peppercorns and chili oil. Both recipes provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring that even novice cooks can replicate this culinary wonder in their own kitchens.
With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, caramel-coated catfish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer the classic or the spicy Szechuan version, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a culinary journey with our caramel-coated catfish recipes.
CORNMEAL-CRUSTED CATFISH
Steps:
- Stir together the milk and 1 heaping tablespoon of the House Seasoning. Pour the milk mixture into a shallow baking dish large enough to hold the filets. Spread the filets in an even layer in the dish, turning to coat each side. Let marinate for about 1 hour in a cool place or the refrigerator.
- Pour enough oil into a large Dutch oven to come 2 inches up the side. Clip a deep-fry thermometer to the pot and heat over medium-high heat until the thermometer reaches 370 degrees F.
- Meanwhile, stir together the cornmeal, flour and remaining 1 heaping tablespoon House Seasoning in a paper bag. Working with a few filets at a time, remove them from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them in the paper bag and gently turn the bag over several times until the filets are evenly coated with the cornmeal mixture. Remove the filets and place them on a baking sheet while you repeat the process with the remaining filets.
- Working in batches, fry the filets until golden brown and crisp on the outside and moist and flaky inside, adjusting the heat to maintain temperature, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a clean wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to drain. Serve the filets with lemon wedges.
- Stir together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
VIETNAMESE BRAISED & CARAMELIZED CATFISH (Cá KHO)
Nothing reminds me more of traditional Vietnamese home cooking than caramelized catfish. Gently braised in fish sauce and coconut juice, this classic sweet and savory side dish is the taste of home.
Provided by Vicky Pham
Categories side dish
Time 20m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Marinate catfish steaks with fish sauce and sugar for at least 30 minutes.
- In a clay pot or skillet, heat vegetable oil on medium-high. Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar (1 tablespoon) onto the oil and heat until the sugar caramelizes to an amber color. Immediately, add shallot and garlic and saute until fragrant (about 15 seconds).
- Add marinated catfish and all its marinade liquid, if any, into the skillet. Flip catfish on all sides to evenly coat with aromatics and caramel sauce (color will darken while braising).
- Add coconut soda and gently cook on a low simmer for a total of 20 minutes, partially covered. At the halfway mark, flip the catfish so that the top gets a chance to absorb the braising liquid. If you find that the fish its too delicate to flip, spoon braising liquid over the catfish instead.
- Top with green onions and black pepper when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 422, Fat 16, SaturatedFat 4, Carbohydrate 9, Sugar 7, Protein 57, Sodium 1561, Cholesterol 197
SEARED CATFISH CREOLE
Steps:
- Pat the catfish dry, and spread a layer of mustard over the surface. Place the cracked pepper onto a plate, and press the coated catfish into the pepper so it is well covered.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until fish flakes with a fork.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 330.9 calories, Carbohydrate 2.9 g, Cholesterol 100.2 mg, Fat 23.9 g, Fiber 1.4 g, Protein 25.9 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, Sodium 326 mg, Sugar 0.2 g
Tips:
- Pick the Right Catfish: Choose firm, fresh catfish fillets with no signs of discoloration or sliminess.
- Crispy Coating: To achieve a crispy coating, double-coat the catfish fillets in the flour mixture. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated.
- Season Well: Don't be shy with the seasonings! Use a flavorful blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the taste of the catfish.
- Hot Oil: Use hot oil to fry the catfish. This will help create a golden-brown crust and prevent the fish from becoming greasy.
- Cook Thoroughly: Cook the catfish fillets until they are opaque and flaky. This ensures that they are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Caramel Sauce Perfection: Stir the caramel sauce constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning. Adjust the consistency by adding more water or butter as needed.
- Garnish Generously: Before serving, sprinkle the catfish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor.
Conclusion:
Caramel-Coated Catfish is a delightful dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of caramel with the tender, flaky texture of catfish. With its crispy coating, flavorful seasonings, and rich caramel sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this unique and delicious recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers and adventurous cooks alike.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love
