Spicy Blackened Catfish Delight
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this Spicy Blackened Catfish Delight. This recipe features tender catfish fillets coated with a delicious mixture of spices, seared to perfection in a hot skillet to create a smoky, charred exterior while keeping the inside flaky and juicy. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, serve it with rice or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. Ideal for sharing with family and friends, this dish is sure to impress any seafood lover!
6
Servings
500
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Paprika
2 tablespoons (Ground)
Salt
2 1/2 teaspoons (Sea salt or kosher salt)
Lemon Pepper
2 teaspoons (Ground seasoning)
Garlic Powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (Ground)
Ground Black Pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons (Ground)
Dried Basil
1 1/2 teaspoons (Crushed)
Onion Powder
1 teaspoon (Ground)
Thyme
1 teaspoon (Dried)
Catfish Fillets
6 (Fresh or thawed)
Unsalted Butter
1 cup (Melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat a large cast iron skillet or heavy aluminum skillet over high heat for about 10 minutes until it's extremely hot.
2
In a small mixing bowl, combine the paprika, salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, ground pepper, dried basil, onion powder, and thyme. Stir until well mixed to create your spice blend.
3
Dip each catfish fillet into the melted unsalted butter, ensuring that both sides are well coated.
4
Generously sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over each fillet, pressing gently to ensure it adheres. Place the seasoned catfish on waxed paper to rest for a few minutes.
5
Carefully place three fillets into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Drizzle each fillet with an additional tablespoon of melted butter.
6
Cook the catfish over high heat for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the fish easily flakes when tested with a fork. The exterior should have a dark, crisp, and textured appearance.
7
Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
40g
Fat
1.7g
Carbs
30g
Protein
866mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Blackened Catfish Delight?
Spicy Blackened Catfish Delight is a Southern-style seafood dish featuring catfish fillets coated in a robust spice blend and seared in a hot skillet to create a smoky, charred exterior.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
What are the main spices used in the blackening blend?
The spice blend consists of paprika, salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, ground black pepper, dried basil, onion powder, and thyme.
What type of skillet is best for blackening fish?
A large cast iron skillet is recommended for its heat retention, though a heavy aluminum skillet can also be used.
How long should I preheat the skillet?
The skillet should be preheated over high heat for approximately 10 minutes until it is extremely hot.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, with only 1.7g of carbohydrates per serving, it is very keto-friendly.
How many calories are in a serving of blackened catfish?
Each serving contains approximately 500 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 30g of protein.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 40g of fat per serving, primarily from the butter and fish.
How do I prepare the catfish before seasoning?
Each fillet should be dipped into melted unsalted butter to ensure both sides are well coated.
Why is the fish placed on waxed paper?
Placing the seasoned fillets on waxed paper for a few minutes allows the spice mixture to properly adhere to the fish.
How long do you cook the catfish fillets?
Cook the fillets over high heat for about 2 minutes on each side.
How can I tell when the catfish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it easily flakes when tested with a fork and has a dark, crisp exterior.
Is this recipe paleo-friendly?
Yes, the ingredients used are considered paleo-friendly.
Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen fillets, but they must be completely thawed before starting the recipe.
What side dishes go well with blackened catfish?
It is traditionally served with rice or a fresh salad to balance the bold, smoky flavors.
How much sodium is in one serving?
There is 866mg of sodium per serving.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of melted unsalted butter.
What kind of salt is best for the spice mix?
Sea salt or kosher salt is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains 0g of sugar.
Can I cook all the fillets at once?
It is best to cook three fillets at a time to ensure you do not overcrowd the skillet.
What gives the fish its 'blackened' appearance?
The combination of the heavy spice rub and the high heat of the skillet creates the dark, textured, charred crust.
Can I substitute the catfish with another fish?
While designed for catfish, you could use other firm white fish fillets like tilapia or red snapper.
Is the recipe spicy?
Yes, the combination of black pepper, lemon pepper, and paprika gives it a spicy, bold kick.
What preparation is needed for the dried basil?
The dried basil should be crushed before being added to the spice blend.
Does the recipe require oil?
No, the recipe uses melted butter on the fish and in the pan rather than oil.
How many ingredients are required in total?
The recipe requires 10 ingredients, including spices and the fish.
Can I make the spice blend in advance?
Yes, you can mix the dry spices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one fillet, based on the recipe making 6 servings from 6 fillets.
Should the fish be served immediately?
Yes, for the best flavor and texture, the fillets should be served immediately after removing them from the skillet.