I absolutely love deep fried catfish but I know it is not the healthiest option for me. I know nothing can actually replicate that dish without frying, but I have come up with a baked version that is close. I have tried this many different ways and have finally come up with a version that I think is fantastic. Instead of using white breadcrumbs I use a combination of both whole wheat breadcrumbs and ground cashews. I cook them up quickly and perfectly in my toaster oven.
I found that a bread crumb breading by itself is Bulk cashews supplier too dry unless it is fried. Cashews have a very buttery texture and taste, yet the flavor is mild enough to not compete with the flavor of the catfish. I also find that in the absence of that unique deep-fried taste, spices are a very welcome addition. Obviously, the spices don’t make the fish taste fried, but it adds a beautiful flavor that leaves you satisfied so that you forget all about the fried version.
Ingredients
4 catfish filets, about 4 ounces each
1 large chicken egg
1 tablespoon of whole milk
3/4 cup of fresh whole wheat bread crumbs (you can buy these or use your food processor to make them from fresh bread)
1/4 cup of finely ground cashews (use your food processor or a heavy rolling-pin to grind the cashews)
1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of dried garlic granules
1/4 teaspoon of dried onion granules
1/4 teaspoon of paprika
1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Heat your toaster oven to 450 degrees