Crispy Catfish Nuggets Recipe
Looking for a delicious, crispy seafood dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? These Catfish Nuggets are marinated in spicy brown mustard and thyme, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves
- 1 cup spicy brown mustard
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Catfish
- Place the catfish pieces in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with dried thyme leaves.
- Toss until the catfish is evenly coated with thyme.
- Add the spicy brown mustard and mix thoroughly with your hands to coat the fish.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours, to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating and Heat Oil
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, and baking soda.
Step 3: Fry the Nuggets
- Remove the catfish from the refrigerator. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the catfish nuggets in batches, ensuring the oil stays hot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the nuggets are golden brown and no longer translucent in the center.
- Allow the oil to return to 350°F between batches to ensure even cooking.
- Drain the fried nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
Serve these crispy catfish nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or a squeeze of fresh lemon. Pair with coleslaw, fries, or a green salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 136kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 74mg
- Sodium: 508mg
- Potassium: 261mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 170IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 14mg
- Iron: 1mg
Tips for Success
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Letting the catfish marinate overnight enhances the tangy mustard and earthy thyme flavors.
- Keep the Oil Hot: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy nuggets. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the fryer to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful catfish nuggets at your next gathering or weeknight dinner! Let us know how they turned out in the comments below, or share your favorite dipping sauce ideas.
Happy Cooking!
