Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices Recipe
Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices is a bold and flavorful dish that’s packed with heat, savory spices, and crispy texture. The catfish is coated with a flavorful Cajun seasoning mix and then pan-seared to perfection, resulting in a crispy, blackened crust that locks in all the juiciness and natural flavors of the fish. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a flavorful weekend dinner.
The Cajun seasoning gives the catfish a smoky, spicy kick that is balanced with savory and aromatic herbs. The blackening process, which involves cooking the fish at a high heat, creates a flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender fish inside. Whether you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors or just love trying new seafood recipes, this Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices will quickly become a favorite.
This dish offers a satisfying contrast between the smoky, spicy exterior and the tender, flaky fish inside. The Cajun seasoning provides the perfect balance of heat and flavor, while the blackened crust adds texture and depth to each bite. Expect a zesty, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. The dish is perfect when paired with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a refreshing salad.
Tools to Use
- Heavy skillet or cast iron pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl for mixing spices
- Tongs or spatula for flipping fish
- Paper towels (for patting the fish dry)
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets (about 4 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cajun Spice Mix
- In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Season the Catfish
- Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This ensures the seasoning sticks well and that the fillets blacken properly.
- Generously rub the spice mix onto both sides of each catfish fillet, pressing it into the fish to ensure an even coating.
- Heat the Pan
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet works best for blackening because it retains heat well and creates that crispy, blackened crust. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers and the butter is melted.
- Cook the Catfish
- Carefully place the seasoned catfish fillets in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy on the outside and flakes easily with a fork. The blackened crust should form quickly, and the fish should cook through without being overcooked.
- Serve
- Once cooked, remove the fillets from the pan and transfer them to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
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Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices Recipe
Equipment
- Heavy skillet or cast iron pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl for mixing spices
- Tongs or spatula for flipping fish
- Paper towels (for patting the fish dry)
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets about 4 oz each
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges for serving optional
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish optional
Tips for Cooking
- Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. For more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
- Blackening Technique: Be sure your pan is hot before adding the fish. The blackening effect relies on high heat to create the crispy, charred crust.
- Serving Options: Pair this dish with classic Southern sides such as cornbread, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for a complete meal. You can also serve it over rice or with a refreshing salad to balance the spice.
- Fresh Fish: Fresh catfish works best for this recipe, but frozen catfish fillets can also be used if thawed and patted dry thoroughly before seasoning.
- Avoid Overcrowding: If cooking multiple fillets, do so in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the fish to steam rather than sear.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices offers the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. It’s quick, easy, and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The crispy blackened crust enhances the delicate flavor of the catfish, while the Cajun seasoning provides a bold punch that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or just looking for a flavorful seafood dish, this recipe is a must-try!
If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make seafood dish, Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices is the way to go. With its crispy, blackened crust and spicy Cajun seasoning, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s an ideal option for those who love bold flavors and want a simple yet delicious meal. Try it tonight and enjoy the perfect balance of heat, texture, and flavor!
