Savory Baked Catfish with Creole Sauce
This delightful recipe for Savory Baked Catfish with Creole Sauce harks back to the culinary traditions of Baton Rouge, offering a burst of authentic Southern flavors in every bite. The perfectly baked catfish fillets are generously topped with a rich, zesty Creole sauce made from fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Paired with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it for a family gathering or a special occasion to impress your guests with a taste of Louisiana.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
Catfish fillets
4 (4 oz each)
Nonstick cooking spray
as needed (for greasing the baking dish)
Fresh parsley
4 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Olive oil
1/2 tablespoon (for the sauce)
Tomatoes
1/2 cup (peeled and diced)
Onions
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Celery
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Green bell pepper
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Garlic
1 teaspoon (finely minced)
Fresh oregano
3/4 teaspoon (finely chopped)
Fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon (finely chopped)
White pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Black pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Red pepper
1/8 teaspoon
Paprika
1/8 teaspoon
Chicken broth
3/4 cup
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Baked Catfish with Creole Sauce?
It is a traditional Southern dish from Baton Rouge featuring baked catfish fillets topped with a zesty vegetable-based Creole sauce.
What are the primary ingredients for the Creole sauce?
The sauce is made from tomatoes, onions, celery, green bell pepper, garlic, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
How many catfish fillets are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 catfish fillets, each weighing approximately 4 ounces.
What is the culinary origin of this dish?
This recipe harks back to the culinary traditions of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
What size should the catfish fillets be?
The fillets should be approximately 4 ounces each for even cooking.
Is this catfish recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy meal option as the fish is baked rather than fried and features a fresh vegetable sauce.
Can I use a different type of fish?
While catfish is traditional, you can substitute other white fish like tilapia or cod.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses fresh parsley, oregano, and thyme.
What peppers are included in the spice blend?
The seasoning includes white pepper, black pepper, and red pepper for a layered heat.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the baking dish?
Use nonstick cooking spray to grease the baking dish before adding the fish.
How should the vegetables be prepared for the sauce?
Onions, celery, and green bell peppers should be finely chopped, and garlic should be finely minced.
Do the tomatoes need to be peeled?
Yes, the recipe suggests using peeled and diced tomatoes for the best sauce texture.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
The tomato paste helps thicken the Creole sauce and adds a deep, concentrated tomato flavor.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth in the sauce.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
Garnish with 4 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a zesty kick from the red, white, and black peppers, but it is generally considered well-balanced rather than overly hot.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on the 4 fillets provided, this recipe serves approximately 4 people.
What oil is used for making the Creole sauce?
The recipe uses 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the sauce ingredients.
What is the 'Holy Trinity' used in this recipe?
The recipe uses the Southern 'Holy Trinity' of aromatics: onions, celery, and green bell pepper.
Can I use frozen catfish?
Yes, but ensure the catfish fillets are completely thawed and patted dry before baking.
Does the recipe include paprika?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of paprika is included for color and a mild smoky flavor.
Can I make the Creole sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before being poured over the fish for baking.
What should I serve as a side dish?
This dish pairs perfectly with white rice, cheese grits, or steamed seasonal vegetables.
How do I know when the catfish is fully cooked?
The catfish is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your chicken broth and tomato paste labels to be sure.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of finely minced garlic.
What kind of cooking spray should I use?
Any standard nonstick cooking spray will work for greasing the baking dish.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Absolutely, its beautiful presentation and authentic Louisiana flavors make it an impressive choice for guests.
How long does the preparation take?
While cooking times vary, the preparation involves chopping several vegetables and simmering a quick sauce before baking.