Would You Eat This Southern Fried Catfish with Cajun Shrimp & Cheesy Grits
Ingredients
2 catfish fillets
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper
Oil for frying
12–15 shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup quick grits
4 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper
see the next page Instructions
Season the catfish with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Dredge the fish in the mixture, pressing to coat well. Fry in hot oil at 350°F until golden brown and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and drain.
Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly caramelized.
Bring water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce heat. Cook, stirring often, until thick and creamy. Stir in cheddar cheese and butter, then season with salt and pepper.
Spoon the cheesy grits onto a plate, top with the Cajun shrimp, and serve alongside the crispy fried catfish.
