Are you craving a truly unforgettable Southern-style meal? Look no further! This fried stuffed catfish recipe is a delightful blend of crispy, golden-brown catfish and a savory, flavorful stuffing. It's a delicious dish perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion. This recipe combines homemade cooking with easy recipes, resulting in a healthy meal that's surprisingly quick to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this best recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Catfish:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare the stuffing by sautéing the onion, celery, and green bell pepper in butter until softened. Stir in the rice, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Catfish:
-
Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
-
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
-
Dredge each catfish fillet in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
-
Place the stuffing evenly down the center of each fillet. Fold the sides of the fillet over the stuffing and secure with toothpicks.
-
In another shallow dish, place the cornmeal. Press each stuffed fillet into the cornmeal, coating it completely.
Fry the Catfish:
-
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour sizzles immediately.
-
Carefully place the stuffed catfish fillets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
-
Remove the catfish from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, marinate the catfish in buttermilk for 30 minutes before breading.
- Feel free to experiment with different stuffing ingredients. Chopped shrimp, crab meat, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the stuffed catfish instead of frying it. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, hushpuppies, or French fries. This quick dinner idea is easily customizable!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious and easy-to-follow recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. This fried stuffed catfish is a delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this healthy meal and remember to share this best recipe with your loved ones!