Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Grits: Begin by bringing water or milk to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring often to prevent clumping. Cook until thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes. Once done, stir in the butter, cheese, and salt, and keep warm over low heat.
Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder. Heat either butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and lightly charred. Squeeze a little lemon juice over them, set aside.
Fry the Catfish: In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the catfish fillets evenly in this mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the catfish until golden and crispy (approximately 3-4 minutes on each side). Drain briefly on paper towels.
Serve: Plate the crispy catfish alongside the creamy cheesy grits and the sautéed Cajun shrimp. Enhance with extra herbs or a lemon wedge for a burst of freshness. Enjoy while hot!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Enhancing your plate of Southern Fried Catfish with Cajun Shrimp & Cheesy Grits can be as simple as adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. A side of tangy coleslaw or crispy fried okra elevates the dish further while capturing that true Southern spirit. Don’t forget additional lemon wedges—squeezing a bit more juice over your meal adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, let your catfish and shrimp cool to room temperature before transferring them to airtight containers. The cooked grits can also be stored separately in the fridge. Properly stored, your leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for the grits and a skillet for the seafood—this way, you can maintain that crispy goodness.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Oil Temperature: Before frying, ensure your oil is hot enough; a drop of water should sizzle upon contact. Using an oil thermometer helps achieve the perfect frying temperature (around 350°F).
For Extra Crunch: Double-breading the catfish fillets—coating them in the cornmeal/flour mixture, allowing them to rest, and then re-dipping them—creates a delightful crunch.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, for unique flavor profiles in your grits.
Creative Twists
Want to mix it up? Consider marinating the shrimp in a bit of lime juice and cilantro for a fresh twist. You can also modify the seasoning by incorporating smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or trying different kinds of fish like tilapia or snapper. If you’re looking for a lighter version, baking the catfish instead of frying could be a good option without sacrificing taste.
Your Questions Answered
1. What is the prep time for this dish?
The total prep and cooking time is around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for the best results.
3. How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the catfish in a skillet over medium heat until warm and crisp again. For the cheesy grits, you can microwave them adding a splash of water or milk to help regain moisture.
Dive into this Southern classic for a meal that combines comfort, flavor, and joy. You won’t regret bringing this recipe into your kitchen!
