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Cajun cuisine, with its rich ancestry and vibrant flavors, captures the essence of Southern cooking. Originating from the French-speaking Acadian settlers in Louisiana, this culinary tradition is renowned for its bold spices, hearty ingredients, and a unique blend of cultural influences. The hallmark of Cajun dishes often lies in their ability to transform simple components into something extraordinary, and one such dish that embodies this spirit is Crispy Cajun Catfish Bites.

Cajun Fried Catfish Bites

Discover the irresistible flavors of the South with Crispy Cajun Catfish Bites! This simple and delicious recipe showcases tender catfish fillets marinated in a tangy buttermilk mixture and coated in a flavorful Cajun spice blend, resulting in a satisfying crunch. Perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, these bites are easy to make and will impress your family and friends. Dive into the world of Cajun cuisine and bring a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more for dusting)

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Marinate the Fish: In a mixing bowl, soak the catfish pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps tenderize the fish and adds flavor.

    Prepare the Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.

      Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-frying thermometer for accuracy.

        Coat the Fish: Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Toss the pieces in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coat. Be sure to coat all sides well.

          Fry the Catfish: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated catfish bites to the oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

            Serve: Once all the catfish bites are fried, sprinkle additional Cajun seasoning on top if desired. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the bites. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as spicy remoulade or tartar sauce!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings