Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish

Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 12-24 hours | Cooking time: 8-10 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a light and healthy dinner. The tangy marinade and zesty lemon butter sauce pair perfectly with the mild and flaky catfish fillets.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional grilled catfish recipes, incorporating fresh lemon and pepper flavors to enhance the natural taste of the fish. Catfish is a popular choice for grilling due to its firm texture and mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

2 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets

Catfish marinade

juice of 1 lemon
4 green onions, chopped
0.5 cup olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Lemon-butter sauce

0.25 cup white wine
1 tsp chopped shallot
0.25 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp chilled butter, cut into small cubes
juice of 1 lemon
salt and white pepper

Seasoned flour

0.5 cup all-purpose flour
generous pinch of each of the following:
onion powder
dried thyme
dried basil
dried oregano
garlic powder
white pepper
baking powder

Garnish

lemon wedges and whole green onions

How to prepare

To marinate the catfish, blend lemon juice, green onions, and olive oil in a blender.
Pour the marinade into a shallow dish and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add the catfish fillets, turning to coat them evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to marinate.
To prepare the lemon butter sauce, heat wine and shallot in a small saucepan over medium heat until the wine has evaporated.
Add cream and simmer until it is reduced by half.
Remove from heat.
Gradually whisk in cubes of butter, a few at a time, until the sauce thickens and is well blended.
If needed, briefly return the pan to heat to help incorporate the butter.
Season to taste with lemon juice, salt, and white pepper.
Prepare a grill or preheat the broiler.
To prepare the seasoned flour, mix flour and baking powder in a shallow dish or on a piece of wax paper.
Drain excess marinade from the fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
Lightly coat the catfish fillets in the flour mixture.
Place the fillets on an oiled grill rack or broiler pan rack and grill or broil the catfish about 4 inches from the heat source for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Serve with the lemon butter sauce and garnish with lemon wedges and green onions.

Variations

Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Use a different type of fish, such as tilapia or trout, in place of catfish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the catfish for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the fish.

- Pat the fillets dry before coating them in the seasoned flour to ensure a crispy exterior.

- Grill the catfish over medium-high heat to prevent it from sticking to the grill.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and healthy meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling and broiling are the best cooking techniques for this recipe, as they allow the catfish to cook quickly and evenly while developing a nice charred exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth in place of white wine in the lemon butter sauce for a non-alcoholic alternative.

- Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

- Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the catfish fillets up to 24 hours in advance, making this a great make-ahead dish for easy entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the citrus and butter flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Catfish is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals such as selenium and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, cream) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish is a high-protein dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With a tangy marinade, zesty lemon butter sauce, and crispy seasoned flour coating, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for seafood lovers.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a gathering with friends and family at a lakeside cabin. One of our friends, who was an avid fisherman, had caught some fresh catfish and decided to grill them up for dinner. As he seasoned the fish with a blend of lemon and pepper, the aroma wafted through the air and instantly caught my attention.

I had always been a fan of seafood, but catfish was not something I was very familiar with. However, the way it was prepared that day sparked my curiosity and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. I approached our friend and asked him for the recipe, to which he kindly obliged.

He explained that the key to a delicious Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish was in the marinade. He used a mixture of fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic, and a touch of olive oil to marinate the fish for a few hours before grilling. This combination of flavors sounded so simple yet so refreshing and flavorful.

I made a mental note of the ingredients and the process, determined to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. As soon as I got home, I headed to the grocery store to pick up some fresh catfish fillets and the necessary ingredients. I carefully prepared the marinade, letting the fish soak in all the citrusy and peppery goodness for a few hours.

When it was time to grill the catfish, I fired up the barbecue and carefully placed the fillets on the hot grates. The sizzle of the fish hitting the grill filled me with anticipation as I waited for it to cook through. The smell of the lemon and pepper mingling with the smoky aroma of the grill was absolutely mouthwatering.

When the catfish was finally ready, I plated it up and took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the zesty lemon, the bold pepper, and the tender, flaky fish all coming together in perfect harmony. I couldn't believe I had made something so delicious on my first try.

From that day on, Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish became a staple in my repertoire. I would make it for family dinners, gatherings with friends, and even just for myself on a quiet night in. Each time I cooked it, I would tweak the recipe ever so slightly, adding a touch more garlic here, a sprinkle of fresh herbs there, always striving to perfect my creation.

Over the years, I shared my recipe with friends and family who were equally impressed with the dish. They would often ask me where I had learned to make such a delectable meal, and I would proudly tell them about that lakeside gathering and the generous fisherman who had shared his recipe with me.

As I passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I realized the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to inspire creativity in the kitchen. The simple act of grilling a piece of catfish had sparked a passion in me that I would carry with me for the rest of my life.

And so, whenever I make Lemon-Pepper Grilled Catfish now, I think back to that warm summer day by the lake, surrounded by loved ones and the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood cooking on the grill. It reminds me of the joy of discovery, the thrill of experimentation, and the love that goes into every dish I create. And for that, I am forever grateful.