Ingredients:

  • 4 pieces of catfish fillets (about 6 oz each / 170 g)
  • 1 cup (120 g) cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise for tartar sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) dill pickle relish for tartar sauce
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice for tartar sauce

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or coat it with cooking spray.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  4. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well blended.
  5. Coat the Catfish: Dip each catfish fillet into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge the fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated catfish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Add Oil: Drizzle or spray the tops with olive oil for added crispiness.
  8. Bake: Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. (Internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
  9. Make Tartar Sauce: (Optional) While the catfish is baking, mix mayo, relish, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  10. Serve: Plate the catfish with the tartar sauce on the side.