I love fried catfish, but I know it’s not the healthiest option for me. I know nothing can replicate that dish without frying, but I came up with a baked version that’s close. I have tried many different ways and finally found a version that I think is fantastic. Instead of using white breadcrumbs, I use a combination of whole wheat breadcrumbs and ground cashews. I cook them quickly and perfectly in my toaster oven.
I’ve found that a breadcrumb breading on its own is too dry unless it’s deep-fried. Cashews have a very buttery texture and flavor, but the flavor is mild enough that it doesn’t compete with the taste of catfish. I also find that in the absence of that unique fried flavor, spices are a very welcome addition. Obviously, the spices don’t make the fish taste fried, but it does give it a beautiful flavor that fills you up to forget about the fried version.
Ingredients
4 catfish fillets, about 4 ounces each
1 large chicken egg
1 tablespoon of whole milk
3/4 cup fresh whole wheat breadcrumbs (you can buy them or use your food processor to make them with fresh bread)
1/4 cup finely ground cashews (use your food processor or a heavy rolling pin to grind the cashews)
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon granulated dried garlic
1/4 teaspoon dried onion granules
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Addresses
Heat your toaster oven to 450 degrees F.
Put the egg and milk in a shallow bowl or dish. Beat well and reserve.
Put the breadcrumbs, ground cashews, allspice, cumin, thyme, garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper in another shallow bowl or dish. Mix well.
Dry the catfish fillets, then dip them into the beaten egg mixture. Move them into the cashew breadcrumb mixture and flip to coat both sides. Place the breaded catfish on a parchment lined baking sheet that will fit in your toaster oven. Bake in your toaster oven until the fish is completely opaque and the breading is golden brown; this should take about 10 minutes. Served with spicy sauce.
The best toaster oven for baking catfish
You will need a toaster oven that is capable of reaching 450 degrees F to properly brown the fish, without having hot spots that will burn parts of it. Visit Toaster Oven Reviews to find the best toaster oven for baking catfish and much more. You’ll find thousands of reviews and a handy buying guide to help you make the best decision.