Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Yogurt-Marinated Fish
A delightful twist on the classic fried fish, this recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt with a hint of heat from hot sauce to marinate either catfish or tilapia, then coats it in a crisp cornmeal crust. Perfect for a family meal or an impromptu dinner with friends. Whether you're aiming for a Southern-inspired dish or just crave something crunchy and satisfying, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. For those thinking outside the fryer, try baking at a high temperature for a lighter version.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
plain yogurt
1 cup (none)
hot sauce
1 teaspoon (such as Tabasco)
cornmeal
1 cup (none)
catfish fillets
4 (6 ounces each, can substitute with tilapia fillets)
olive oil
as needed (for frying and preventing sticking)
lemon
1 (cut into wedges, for serving)
tartar sauce
to taste (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, mix the plain yogurt and hot sauce until well combined.
2
Add the fish fillets to the yogurt mixture, ensuring they are completely coated. Let them marinate for 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
3
After marinating, drain the fish fillets and thoroughly coat each fillet in cornmeal, pressing gently to adhere.
4
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the cornmeal-coated fish fillets to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry each fillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5
Once cooked, remove the fillets from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this fish recipe?
The recipe is for Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Yogurt-Marinated Fish.
What are the primary ingredients for the marinade?
The marinade consists of plain yogurt and hot sauce.
How long should the fish marinate?
The fish should be marinated for 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
What is used to crust the fish?
Cornmeal is used to create a crispy crust for the fish.
Which types of fish work best for this recipe?
Catfish fillets are recommended, but tilapia fillets can be used as a substitute.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What size should each fish fillet be?
Each fish fillet should be approximately 6 ounces.
Can I bake the fish instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake it at a high temperature for a lighter version of the dish.
What type of oil is used for frying?
Olive oil is used for frying the fish.
How long should I fry each fillet?
Fry each fillet for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side.
How do I know when the fish is finished cooking?
The fish is done when it is golden brown and cooked through.
What is the recommended heat setting for frying?
A medium-high heat setting is recommended.
What should I do with the fillets after they are fried?
Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
What are the suggested side items for serving?
Serve the fish with fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
How much hot sauce is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of hot sauce.
What kind of yogurt is required?
The recipe requires 1 cup of plain yogurt.
Is there a specific brand of hot sauce suggested?
The recipe suggests Tabasco as an example.
How do I apply the cornmeal to the fish?
Thoroughly coat each fillet in cornmeal, pressing gently to adhere.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 7 ingredients required for this recipe.
Is the tartar sauce a mandatory ingredient?
No, tartar sauce is optional and can be added to taste.
What culture or region inspires this dish?
This is described as a Southern-inspired dish.
What preparation is needed for the lemon?
The lemon should be cut into wedges for serving.
Should the yogurt be flavored?
No, the recipe specifically calls for plain yogurt.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Mix the plain yogurt and hot sauce in a medium bowl until well combined.
What should I do with the fish before coating it in cornmeal?
Drain the fish fillets after they have finished marinating.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
The description mentions that the dish is both nutritious and delicious.
What type of pan should be used?
A large frying pan is recommended for cooking the fish.
How much cornmeal is used for the coating?
The recipe uses 1 cup of cornmeal.
Should the fish be served immediately?
Yes, the instructions suggest serving it immediately.
Can I substitute the olive oil?
While the recipe specifies olive oil, it is mainly used for frying and preventing sticking.