Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Trout and Catfish
Indulge in the delightful crunch of this Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Trout or Catfish. This recipe elevates simple fish fillets to a whole new level with a flavorful, crunchy coating that combines the nutty essence of finely chopped almonds or pecans with aromatic spices. The preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or even a dinner party. Pair it with a fresh salad, savory rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or hearty beans for a versatile meal that will impress anyone. Ideal for fish lovers looking for a new favorite cooking method, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
N/A
Servings
240
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
trout fillets or catfish fillets
4-5 (medium-sized, skinless)
all-purpose flour
1/3 cup (none)
egg
1 (beaten)
water
1 tablespoon (none)
yellow cornmeal
1 cup (none)
nuts (finely chopped)
1/4 cup (any kind (preferably almonds or pecans))
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
paprika
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon (none)
vegetable oil
about 1 inch (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg together with the tablespoon of water until well combined.
2
Prepare the fish fillets by rolling them lightly in the all-purpose flour, ensuring an even coating.
3
In a medium-sized plastic ziplock bag or mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, finely chopped nuts, salt, pepper, paprika, and ground cumin. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
4
One at a time, dip each floured fish fillet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then place the fillet in the cornmeal mixture. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and shake gently to coat the fillet thoroughly with the cornmeal mixture.
5
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat until shimmering.
6
Carefully place the coated fish fillets in the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until both sides are golden brown and crispy, with a total cooking time of approximately 10 minutes. Use a fork to test for doneness – the fish should flake easily.
7
Remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
8
For an extra zing, serve the fish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon or lime juice, or enjoy it as is for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Nutrition Information
12g
Fat
24g
Carbs
18g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The dish is Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Trout and Catfish.
What types of fish can I use for this recipe?
You can use either trout fillets or catfish fillets.
Should the fish fillets be skinless?
Yes, the recipe specifies using medium-sized, skinless fillets.
How many fillets does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 4-5 fillets.
What is the first step in coating the fish?
The first step is to roll the fish fillets lightly in all-purpose flour for an even coating.
What ingredients are in the egg wash?
The egg wash consists of one egg beaten together with one tablespoon of water.
What constitutes the crunchy cornmeal mixture?
The mixture includes yellow cornmeal, finely chopped nuts, salt, pepper, paprika, and ground cumin.
What kind of nuts are recommended for the crust?
Finely chopped almonds or pecans are preferred, though any kind can be used.
How much cornmeal is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of yellow cornmeal.
What spices are used to season the fish?
The seasonings include salt, pepper, paprika, and ground cumin.
What is the easiest way to coat the fish in the cornmeal mix?
You can use a medium-sized plastic ziplock bag to shake and coat the fillets thoroughly.
How much vegetable oil is needed for frying?
You should use about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan.
What is the correct temperature for the oil?
Heat the oil over medium heat until it is shimmering before adding the fish.
How long should each side of the fish be fried?
Each side should be fried for about 4-5 minutes.
What is the total cooking time for the fish?
The total cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when both sides are golden brown and crispy, and it flakes easily when tested with a fork.
What should I do with the fish immediately after frying?
Remove the fish from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
What are some suggested side dishes for this meal?
Recommended sides include fresh salad, savory rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or hearty beans.
How can I add extra flavor before serving?
You can serve the fish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon or lime juice for an extra zing.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 240 calories.
How much protein does this recipe provide?
The dish provides 18 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content of this fried fish?
There are 12 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
The recipe contains 24 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is described as perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or dinner party.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total.
What amount of chopped nuts is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts.
Can I use this recipe for a dinner party?
Yes, the description notes it is a versatile meal that is sure to impress at dinner parties.
What amount of ground cumin is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin.
What kind of flour should be used?
The recipe specifies 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, the instructions are straightforward and it is tagged as an easy recipe.