LIVING: FOOD FOR THE SOUL

Cajun Catfish Sandwich

Sometimes the best meal is also the simplest. When you’re craving something flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare, a Cajun Catfish Sandwich is hard to beat. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold Southern flavors, this sandwich is a delicious way to bring a little Louisiana-inspired spice to your table.

INGREDIENTS

• Vegetable oil (or your preferred cooking oil), for frying
• 1½cups yellow cornmeal or your favorite fish-fry coating mix
• 2 large eggs
• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 red onion, sliced
• Romaine lettuce leaves
• 1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced
• Sandwich rolls or bread of choice
• Remoulade sauce, or mayonnaise and hot sauce
• Sliced pickles (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Pour oil into a large frying pan or deep skillet to a depth of about 4 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cornmeal (or fish-fry mix) with the cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 tablespoon of water.

4. Season the catfish fillets lightly with additional Cajun spices if desired, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet.

5. Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned cornmeal mixture.

6. Carefully place the coated catfish into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 2 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

7. Remove the catfish and drain on paper towels.

8. Spread remoulade sauce — or a mixture of mayonnaise and hot sauce — on your bread or rolls. Layer with the fried catfish, sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, and pickles if desired. 

Serve immediately and enjoy a crispy, spicy treat full of Southern flavor.