Egypt Ridge Catfish

Egypt Ridge Catfish Recipe - Delicious and Spicy Catfish Dish from Egypt

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Egypt Ridge Catfish is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate taste of U.S. farm-raised catfish with a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey, vinegar, and raisins. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional flavors of Southern cuisine, where catfish is a popular and versatile ingredient. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in the sauce is reminiscent of classic Southern cooking, with a unique twist that sets it apart from other catfish dishes.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets
0.33 cup of vegetable oil
0.33 cup of all-purpose flour
1 tbsp of curry powder
0.5 tsp of cayenne pepper
1 large red onion, sliced
0.33 cup of raisins
0.33 cup of cider vinegar
0.33 cup of honey
For garnish: peanuts and finely chopped parsley

How to prepare

Place the catfish fillets on paper towels to dry.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
In a plastic bag, combine flour, curry powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Slice the catfish into 3-inch lengths and add them to the bag.
Shake the bag to coat the catfish with the flour mixture.
Fry the catfish in the hot oil, two at a time, for about 3 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Drain the fried catfish on fresh paper towels.
Add the onion to the remaining oil in the pan, stirring to distribute it in the oil.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for 2 minutes or until the onion is softened.
Stir in the raisins and cook for 2 minutes.
Add the vinegar and cook for 2 minutes.
Add the honey and cook until the mixture comes to a boil.
Add the catfish pieces to the pan and stir to coat them with the sauce.
Cover and cook until the fish is warmed through.
Serve the dish garnished with peanuts and chopped parsley.

Variations

Substitute the catfish fillets with another type of white fish, such as tilapia or cod.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Use maple syrup or molasses instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to dry the catfish fillets thoroughly before frying to ensure a crispy coating.

- Fry the catfish in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences for spiciness.

- Be careful not to overcook the catfish, as it can become tough and dry.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Egypt Ridge Catfish with steamed rice or mashed potatoes and a side of sautéed greens for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the catfish fillets in a hot skillet ensures a crispy and golden-brown crust.

- Simmering the sauce with the catfish allows the flavors to meld together and infuse the fish with delicious taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cornmeal or breadcrumbs instead of flour for a different texture in the coating.

- Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or apricots for a unique twist on the sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the catfish before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the catfish fillets on a platter and drizzle the sauce over the top for an elegant presentation. Garnish with chopped parsley and crushed peanuts for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Egypt Ridge Catfish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the catfish and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Egypt Ridge Catfish contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Egypt Ridge Catfish contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Egypt Ridge Catfish contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Egypt Ridge Catfish contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Egypt Ridge Catfish is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and nuts (peanuts) allergens.

Summary

Egypt Ridge Catfish is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Egypt Ridge Catfish is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the delicate taste of catfish with a sweet and tangy sauce. With a crispy coating and a rich sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Egypt Ridge Catfish. It was a hot summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic at Egypt Ridge, a beautiful spot along the river where the catfish were known to be plentiful. As I arrived at the picnic area, I noticed a group of older women gathered around a table, chatting and laughing as they prepared the food for the feast. Curious, I wandered over to see what they were cooking.

One of the women, Mrs. Jenkins, was holding a large platter of golden-brown catfish fillets that had been fried to perfection. The aroma of the crispy fish wafted through the air, making my mouth water. Mrs. Jenkins noticed my interest and beckoned me over to join them.

"Would you like to learn how to make Egypt Ridge Catfish?" she asked with a warm smile.

I eagerly nodded, and Mrs. Jenkins handed me a worn recipe card that had been passed down through generations. The ingredients were simple - fresh catfish fillets, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce. The key, Mrs. Jenkins explained, was in the technique.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins expertly coat the catfish fillets in seasoned cornmeal and fry them in a cast-iron skillet until they were crispy and golden, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure. The catfish was tender and flaky, with a delicious crunch that was irresistible.

Mrs. Jenkins shared with me the story behind the recipe. She had learned to make Egypt Ridge Catfish from her own grandmother, who had grown up along the river and had passed down the recipe to her. Over the years, Mrs. Jenkins had perfected the dish, adding her own touches and variations to make it her own.

I was captivated by the history and tradition behind Egypt Ridge Catfish, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Mrs. Jenkins kindly offered to teach me, and over the course of the afternoon, she guided me through each step of the process, offering tips and tricks along the way.

As the sun began to set and the picnic came to an end, I proudly presented my own batch of Egypt Ridge Catfish to the group. The catfish was a hit, with everyone raving about the crispy coating and flavorful seasoning. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride as I realized that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

In the years that followed, I continued to make Egypt Ridge Catfish for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the warm summer day when she had shared her recipe with me. The memories of that day and the delicious taste of the catfish never failed to bring a smile to my face.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen surrounded by my collection of recipes, I am grateful for the gift of Egypt Ridge Catfish and the wonderful friends who have shared their culinary wisdom with me. The recipe may have originated from a small town along the river, but its flavors and traditions have traveled far and wide, bringing joy and satisfaction to all who taste it.

I will always cherish the memory of that hot summer day at Egypt Ridge, where I learned to make the most delicious catfish I have ever tasted. And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I know that the legacy of Egypt Ridge Catfish will live on for generations to come.