A tasty and spicy take on classic Southern fare is found in Buffalo Fried Okra with Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish.
The crispy and spicy buffalo fried okra combined with the zesty catfish fillets make for a delectable flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
You will follow this recipe’s instructions to create this tasty and spicy travel dinner.
Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish and Buffalo Fried Okra Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serves: 4
Ingredients:
For the Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
For the Buffalo Fried Okra:
- Oil for frying
- 2 cups fresh okra, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions For the Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish:
1. Prepare the Catfish:
- Rinse the catfish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle each fillet with cayenne pepper, lemon pepper spice, and salt. Make sure all fillets are evenly coated.
2. Coat the Catfish:
- In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal and all-purpose flour.
- Dredge the seasoned fillets in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully covered.
3. Fry the Catfish:
- Garnish with lemon slices and serve.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the fillets in the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the fillets and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Instructions For Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish and Buffalo Fried Okra Recipe:
1. Prepare the Okra:
- Cut fresh okra into rounds and place it in a large bowl.
- Cover the okra with buttermilk and let it soak for 15 minutes.
2. Coat the Okra:
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Fry the Okra:
- Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- After soaking, remove the okra from the buttermilk, letting any excess buttermilk drip off.
- Roll the okra in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Fry the okra in batches for 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried okra and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve and Savor:
- Serve the buffalo fried okra alongside the spicy lemon pepper catfish.
- Offer blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping if desired.
Benefits of Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish and Buffalo Fried Okra Recipe
1. High in Protein:
Catfish is rich in lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Including catfish in your meal helps provide the protein your body needs.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Catfish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation, support brain function, and improve heart health. The zesty lemon pepper adds flavor and health benefits too!
3. Antioxidants:
Lemon pepper seasoning includes black pepper and lemon zest, both of which are high in antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect your cells from damage and promote overall health.
4. Nutritional Value of Okra:
Okra is low in calories and high in fiber. It’s packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
5. Spicy Kick:
Cayenne pepper in the buffalo fried okra and catfish contains capsaicin, which may boost digestion and metabolism. It can also help you feel full, aiding portion control.
6. Tasteful and Satisfying:
This dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making healthy eating enjoyable. It’s a tasty way to incorporate more lean protein and veggies into your meals.
