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Fiery Catfish Fingers

3.6

(8)

In the South we grow up loving catfish, which is plentiful in the bayous and rivers. Now it's farm-grown and northerners are discovering its mild and versatile flavor. We coat bite-size fingers of catfish fillets with plenty of Tabasco sauce and deep-fry them for a knock-your-socks-off appetizer.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

1 cup yellow or coarse-ground mustard, or a combination of both
1 egg white, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons Tabasco pepper sauce
1 1/2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into bite-size strips
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 quart vegetable oil

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, stir together the mustard, egg white, and Tabasco sauce. Add the fish and toss to coat well. Cover and marinate for 1 hour.

    Step 2

    In a shallow dish, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper. Pour the oil into a heavy 3-quart saucepan or deep-fryer, filling it no more than one-third full, and heat over medium heat to 350°F. Dredge the fish in the cornmeal mixture and shake off the excess. Carefully add the fish to the oil, a few pieces at a time. Cook for 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels. Serve the catfish hot with spicy mayonnaise or picante sauce.

The Tabasco Cookbook Crown Publishing Group
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