Lemon Grilled Catfish

Lemon Grilled Catfish Recipe - Delicious and Healthy American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemon Grilled Catfish is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The tangy marinade adds a zesty kick to the mild catfish, making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and picky eaters alike.

History

Grilled catfish has been a popular dish in the southern United States for centuries. The combination of fresh lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce adds a modern twist to this classic recipe, creating a dish that is both traditional and innovative.

Ingredients

0.5 cup worcestershire sauce
0.5 cup fresh lemon juice
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
2 to 4 drops tabasco
0.5 tsp ground thyme
U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets, whole or cut into strips

How to prepare

In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, mix all the seasoning ingredients together; shake well to thoroughly combine.
The marinade can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Wash the catfish fillets and pat them dry.
Cover the fillets with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
Grill the fillets over a medium-hot fire, basting them with the marinade.
If you prefer to cook indoors, melt a tablespoon of butter in a heavy skillet over high heat.
Place the catfish in the hot skillet, shaking it to prevent sticking.
Cook the fish, turning and shaking the pan, for 3 to 4 minutes or until done.
Serve immediately.

Variations

You can customize the marinade by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic, paprika, or oregano.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce in the marinade.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pat the catfish fillets dry before marinating them to ensure that the flavors penetrate the fish.

- Basting the fillets with the marinade while grilling helps to keep them moist and adds an extra layer of flavor.

- If you don't have a grill, you can easily cook the catfish in a skillet on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon Grilled Catfish with a side of steamed vegetables and a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the catfish adds a smoky flavor to the dish, but you can also bake or broil the fillets for a different texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have catfish, you can use any firm white fish, such as tilapia or cod, as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the catfish fillets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Lemon Grilled Catfish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the citrus flavors in the marinade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the catfish in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Calories per serving: 150

Carbohydrates

2g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and Worcestershire sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Lemon Grilled Catfish is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for seafood lovers.

Summary

Lemon Grilled Catfish is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. With a tangy marinade and a smoky grilled flavor, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary at her lake house. As we sat on the deck, chatting and sipping lemonade, Mary mentioned that she was going to make her famous Lemon Grilled Catfish for dinner.

I had never tried catfish before, let alone grilled catfish, so I was immediately intrigued. Mary had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She explained that the key to the dish was the perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory herbs.

As I watched Mary prepare the ingredients, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill in the kitchen. She effortlessly sliced lemons, minced garlic, and sprinkled a blend of herbs and spices over the catfish fillets. Then, with a flick of her wrist, she drizzled olive oil over the fish before placing them on the grill.

The smell that wafted from the grill was mouthwatering, and I eagerly awaited the final result. When Mary plated the catfish and drizzled it with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice, my taste buds tingled in anticipation. I took my first bite and was instantly hooked. The fish was tender and flaky, with a subtle hint of citrus and herbs that danced on my tongue.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make Lemon Grilled Catfish for myself. Mary graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly practiced in my own kitchen. Over time, I perfected the dish to suit my own tastes, adding a touch more garlic here and a pinch of paprika there.

I found that cooking Lemon Grilled Catfish not only satisfied my hunger but also brought me a sense of joy and fulfillment. Each time I prepared the dish, memories of that sunny day at Mary's lake house flooded my mind. I felt connected to her and to the generations of women who had passed down this recipe before me.

As the years went by, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new flavors and techniques. I added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating fresh herbs from my garden and locally sourced catfish from the market.

My Lemon Grilled Catfish became a staple in my household, a dish that I proudly served to friends and family alike. It became a symbol of my love for cooking and my appreciation for the traditions that had shaped me.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by the aroma of sizzling catfish and lemon, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought me so much joy. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from Mary and her grandmother, and for the bond that cooking has forged between us.

In the end, I realize that the true magic of a recipe lies not just in its flavors, but in the stories and memories that it carries. And as I take a bite of my Lemon Grilled Catfish, I am reminded of the love and connection that food can bring into our lives.