Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, catfish nuggets are a delectable treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. Made with fresh catfish fillets cut into bite-sized pieces, these nuggets are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until golden brown. Served with your favorite dipping sauce, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering. This article provides three variations of catfish nuggets: classic, spicy, and cheesy. The classic recipe features a simple seasoned flour coating, while the spicy recipe adds a kick of heat with cayenne pepper and paprika. The cheesy recipe takes it up a notch with a Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb coating that creates a gooey, flavorful center. Whichever recipe you choose, you're in for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Let's cook with our recipes!
FRIED CATFISH NUGGETS
Steps:
- Place the catfish pieces into a mixing bowl and sprinkle with thyme leaves. Toss until the catfish is evenly coated with the thyme. Mix in the mustard with your hands. Cover, and refrigerate overnight, up to 24 hours.
- Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Whisk the flour, salt, black pepper, and baking soda together in a mixing bowl.
- Dip the catfish pieces one at a time into the flour mixture and shake off the excess. Fry the catfish nuggets in batches until they are no longer translucent in the center and are golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Let the oil come back up to temperature between batches. Drain the nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 394.9 calories, Carbohydrate 26.3 g, Cholesterol 53.3 mg, Fat 21.9 g, Fiber 1.3 g, Protein 22.8 g, SaturatedFat 3.8 g, Sodium 898.3 mg, Sugar 0.1 g
OVEN FRIED CATFISH NUGGETS
Want the crunch of deep fried without the fat, give these crispy nuggets a try. Use any fish you wish (cod, bass, etc.)
Provided by Luvs 2 Cook
Categories Catfish
Time 30m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Combine bread crumbs, cornflakes, Parmesan Cheese, and Cajun seasoning in a bowl.
- Coat fish with butter - flavored nonstick cooking spray, then roll in crumb mixture.
- Place on baking sheet coated with nonstick cooking spray.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
MY FRIED CATFISH W/ HOMEMADE NUGGETS
In 1950, and after watching grandpa Curl skin the big ole catfish he just caught in an Indiane creek,...by nailing it to a tree and pulling off the skin with his trusty ole plyers...YUCK! I wasn't sure I wanted to eat it at supper time. But after grandma starting frying it up...HA! AFTER A FEW BITES, I WAS HOOKED!! AND REMAIN SO...
Provided by Nancy J. Patrykus
Categories Other Side Dishes
Time 20m
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- 1. Cut your catfish filet into bite size nuggets. ** TIP:I never buy the catfish nuggets packaged and sold in the store...!! NUGGETTS ????? I cut up my own...Then I know it is the best part of the fish! Wash and pat dry with paper towels.
- 2. Put flour in one bowl. Beaten egg , with a little milk (very little)in another bowl. Bread crumbs,homemade cracker crumbs,or Panko in the third bowl.
- 3. Dip the nuggets into the flour,then the egg wash, next the crumbs.Put on a plate. When the are all breaded ...put in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes.
- 4. Heat the oil to a 350-370 temperature. Fry your nuggets 3 or 4 at a time...do not over crowd them. Drain on a rack over paper towels. Serve warm with dip of your choice. I use mayonnaise mixed with catsup. Salt and pepper..... and a salad on the side. Now enjoy to your heart content!!
Tips:
- Choose the Right Catfish: Select firm, fresh catfish fillets with no blemishes or discoloration.
- Properly Clean and Cut: Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat dry. Cut them into 1-inch thick strips or nuggets.
- Seasoning is Key: In a bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful breading.
- Buttermilk Marinade: Soak the catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the fish and adds a tangy flavor.
- Double Coating: Dredge the catfish nuggets in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip them back into the buttermilk, and coat them again in the flour mixture. This creates a crispy, golden-brown outer layer.
- Frying Temperature: Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain the oil temperature. Fry the catfish nuggets in small batches for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Season: Remove the fried catfish nuggets from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Immediately season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve the catfish nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or ranch dressing.
Conclusion:
Fried catfish nuggets are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. By following these tips and the detailed recipe provided, you'll be able to create crispy, flavorful catfish nuggets that will be a hit at your next gathering. Remember to use fresh ingredients, season well, and fry the nuggets at the right temperature to achieve the perfect texture and taste. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oil, and get ready to indulge in this Southern classic!
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