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Baked Whole Catfish with Spicy Herb and Pepper Puree Recipe

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3.9 from 81 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Deliciously seasoned and tender baked whole catfish infused with a vibrant blend of bell pepper, habanero, garlic, and fresh herbs. This recipe makes use of simple ingredients and baking technique to deliver a flavorful and aromatic fish dish perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 whole catfish
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 1/2 onions, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp ginger root, finely chopped
  • 1 habanero pepper
  • 1/2 sprig thyme leaves
  • 1/2 sprig dill
  • 1 sprig sage
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the catfish.
  2. Prepare the pepper blend: In a blender, combine the red bell pepper, habanero pepper, and chopped onions and blend until smooth to create a vibrant base sauce.
  3. Add aromatics and herbs: To the blended mixture, add the minced garlic, finely chopped ginger, thyme leaves, dill, sage, and salt to taste; blend again until fully incorporated.
  4. Clean the fish: Rinse the catfish thoroughly and use lemon to clean it to help reduce the fishy odor.
  5. Score the fish: Make 3 to 4 shallow diagonal slices on both sides of the fish to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  6. Stuff the fish: Scoop about half of the blended mixture into the holes made by the slices and the center slit of the fish.
  7. Reserve the sauce: Keep the other half of the puree mixture to use as a sauce later.
  8. Wrap and bake the fish: Completely wrap the stuffed fish in aluminum foil and place it on the bottom rack of the oven; bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Optional sauce preparation: While the fish is baking, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the reserved blended mixture, and stir continuously for 5 minutes to make a warm sauce.
  10. Finish baking: After 45 minutes, open the foil at the top (without removing it fully) and bake the fish uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
  11. Serve: Remove the fish from the oven, unwrap, and garnish with the prepared pepper sauce or alternatively drizzle with olive oil if you prefer not to use the sauce.

Notes

  • Make sure to adjust the habanero quantity according to your preferred spice level.
  • Using fresh herbs such as thyme, dill, and sage adds aromatic complexity to the dish.
  • Wrapping the fish in foil keeps it moist and ensures even cooking.
  • The optional sauce enhances flavor but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: African

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/baked-whole-catfish-with-spicy-herb-and-pepper-puree-recipe/