Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish

Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish is a delightful recipe that combines the rich, smoky flavors of barbequed catfish with the fresh, vibrant taste of summer corn relish. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and visually appealing meal. The combination of spices used to marinate the catfish fillets brings out the natural flavors of the fish, while the corn relish adds a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish.

History

The tradition of barbequing catfish has roots in Southern American cuisine, where catfish is abundant and has been a staple food for centuries. The method of grilling catfish is a relatively modern twist on the traditional frying method, offering a healthier and more flavorful option. The addition of the summer grilled corn relish is inspired by Native American cooking, which often incorporates corn as a fundamental ingredient. This recipe is a beautiful fusion of these culinary traditions, creating a dish that is both modern and deeply rooted in history.

Ingredients

For the Catfish

1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp pure chili powder, preferably medium hot
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp dark brown sugar
2.5 tsp paprika
6 U.S. Farm-Raised catfish fillets

For the corn relish

2 ears corn, husked
2.5 tsp fruity olive oil
2 large cloves garlic, minced
2 large ripe tomatoes
1 large green bell pepper, diced
2.5 tbsp lemon juice
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For grilling Catfish

olive oil
barbeque sauce, purchased or homemade
For garnish: Fresh basil leaves

How to prepare

1. To marinate the Catfish, mix salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and paprika in a small bowl. Spread the mixture evenly over both sides of the Catfish fillets, place them on a dish, and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
2. About 1 hour before serving, prepare charcoal for grilling and let it burn until the coals are hot.
3. To prepare the corn relish, lightly brush the corn with some of the olive oil and lay it on the grill rack over the hot coals. Grill, turning often, until golden on all sides. Allow it to cool. Cut the kernels from the cobs with a sharp knife into a large bowl. (There should be about 1.33 cups of kernels.)
4. Heat the remaining olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes or until very soft and fragrant. Allow it to cool and then add it to the bowl of corn kernels.
5. Cut the tomatoes in half and gently squeeze out the seeds, discarding them. Dice the tomatoes. (There should be about 1.33 cups of diced tomatoes.) Add the tomatoes and green pepper to the corn mixture. Mix in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings if desired.
6. To grill the Catfish, brush the marinated fillets with olive oil and lay them on the grill over the hottest part of the fire. After about 30 seconds, turn the fillets 90°F (32°C) and grill them on the same side for 30 seconds longer. Move the fillets to a cooler part of the fire and cook them for 2 minutes longer on that side. Turn them over and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the other side, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Just before the fillets are done, brush them with barbecue sauce.
7. Place the grilled Catfish on serving plates and spoon the corn relish over them. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Variations

For a spicier version of the dish, add a diced jalapeño to the corn relish. If catfish is not available, this recipe works well with other firm white fish like tilapia or cod. You can also add black beans to the corn relish for an extra protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your barbequed catfish, marinate the fillets for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavorful dish. When grilling the catfish, be careful not to overcook it; catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside. For the corn relish, grilling the corn before cutting off the kernels adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbequed catfish with a generous portion of the summer grilled corn relish on the side. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of quinoa or brown rice and a green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing the catfish and corn with a smoky flavor that's hard to replicate with other cooking methods. The slow cooking of garlic in olive oil for the relish is a technique that enhances its flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh corn, frozen corn that has been thawed and lightly grilled can be used as a substitute. In place of dark brown sugar, you can use light brown sugar or honey for the catfish marinade. Apple cider vinegar can replace lemon juice in the corn relish if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The catfish marinade and corn relish can be prepared a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together and saving you time on the day of serving. Simply grill the catfish and assemble the dish before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the barbequed catfish on a platter, topped with the corn relish and garnished with fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch of elegance, add lemon wedges and a sprinkle of paprika around the platter.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemon-infused iced tea complements the smoky and tangy flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover barbequed catfish and corn relish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the catfish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The corn relish can be served cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option that doesn't sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the corn in the summer grilled corn relish. One serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderate-carb option suitable for most diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the olive oil used in the corn relish and for grilling the catfish. The total fat content per serving is around 10 grams, with a healthy balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, contributing to heart health.

Proteins

Catfish is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of this barbequed catfish dish provides approximately 35 grams of protein, making it a great option for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the lemon juice and tomatoes, and vitamin A from the paprika. It also provides a good amount of potassium and magnesium, essential for heart health and muscle function.

Alergens

The primary allergen to be aware of in this recipe is fish (catfish). Individuals with a fish allergy should avoid this dish. This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten, making it suitable for most people with food sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish is a nutritious and balanced dish. It's high in protein and vitamins, moderate in carbohydrates and fats, and low in calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising their dietary goals.

Summary

Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish is a flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing dish that's perfect for summer dining. With its rich history, versatile serving options, and the ability to make ahead, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly in the sky, as I walked through the bustling farmers market in search of fresh ingredients for dinner. As I passed by the rows of colorful stalls filled with fruits and vegetables, my eyes caught sight of a sign that read "Fresh Corn from the Field."

I made my way over to the stall and was greeted by a friendly farmer who was busy shucking ears of corn. The sweet aroma of fresh corn filled the air, and I couldn't resist buying a few ears to take home. As I paid for my purchase, the farmer struck up a conversation with me, asking if I had ever tried grilling corn before.

I admitted that I hadn't, and he proceeded to tell me all about his favorite recipe for Summer Grilled Corn Relish. He explained how he would grill the corn until it was charred and smoky, then mix it with fresh herbs, diced tomatoes, and a splash of lime juice. The thought of this flavorful relish made my mouth water, and I knew I had to give it a try.

The farmer kindly shared his recipe with me, and as I made my way home with my bag of fresh corn, I couldn't wait to cook up a delicious meal for my family. When I arrived home, I immediately got to work preparing the relish, grilling the corn until it was perfectly charred and mixing it with the other ingredients. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was both vibrant and full of summer goodness.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal with my family, I couldn't help but think about how recipes have a way of bringing people together. Whether it's a family tradition passed down through generations or a new creation discovered at the farmers market, each recipe tells a story and creates memories that last a lifetime.

I thought back to all the recipes I had collected over the years, from my mother's famous apple pie to my aunt's secret recipe for fried chicken. Each dish held a special place in my heart, reminding me of the moments shared with loved ones around the dinner table.

And now, this recipe for Barbequed Catfish with Summer Grilled Corn Relish would surely become a new favorite in my collection. The sweet and smoky flavors of the grilled corn relish paired perfectly with the tender and flaky catfish, creating a dish that was both comforting and delicious.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my friends and family, knowing that it would bring joy and happiness to all who tried it. And as I sat back in my chair, savoring each bite of the flavorful meal before me, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life – good food, good company, and the love that binds us all together.