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Cajun Blackened Catfish with Dirty Rice is popular dish with its growing popularities.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American (Cajun)
Servings: 4
Calories: ~430 per serving
Materials Required:
Skillet, pot, knife
Ingredients:
4 catfish fillets
2 cups pre-cooked rice (preferably dirty rice)
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp butter or oil
1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
Salt to taste
Method:
Rub the catfish with Cajun seasoning.
In a skillet, melt butter and sear catfish until blackened (about 4–5 minutes per side).
In a pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery; mix with the pre-cooked rice.
Serve the catfish atop the dirty rice.
Description
Cajun Blackened Catfish with Dirty Rice is a bold and flavorful dish that originates from Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions. It combines spicy, blackened catfish with savory, seasoned dirty rice, offering a delicious balance of heat, smokiness, and depth of flavor.
Blackened Catfish:
The catfish fillets are coated in a homemade Cajun blackening seasoning—a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and black pepper—then seared in a hot cast-iron skillet until a deep, flavorful crust forms. The result is a crispy, smoky exterior with a juicy, tender inside.
Dirty Rice:
This classic Creole side dish is made by cooking white rice with onions, bell peppers, celery (the “Holy Trinity” of Cajun cooking), and ground sausage or chicken livers, giving it a rich, earthy flavor. Spices such as cayenne and black pepper enhance the dish, and fresh parsley or green onions add brightness.
Presentation:
The blackened catfish is served over or alongside a generous portion of dirty rice, with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a garnish of chopped green onions or parsley. Some variations include a side of coleslaw or sautéed greens to balance the spice.
Benefits
This dish not only delivers bold flavors but also offers several health benefits:
High in Protein:
Catfish is a lean source of protein that supports muscle health and overall body function.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
While not as high in omega-3s as salmon, catfish still provides heart-healthy fats that promote brain function and reduce inflammation.
Rich in Spices & Antioxidants:
The blackening seasoning includes herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, and cayenne, which contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Balanced Meal:
The combination of protein-rich fish and fiber-filled dirty rice makes for a well-rounded meal that provides essential nutrients.
Versatile and Customizable:
The dish can be made spicier or milder depending on your preference, and the rice can be adapted for different dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is “blackening” in cooking?
Blackening is a cooking technique where fish, chicken, or meat is coated in a spice blend and seared in a very hot cast-iron skillet. The intense heat toasts the spices and creates a dark, flavorful crust without burning the food.
Can I use a different fish instead of catfish?
Yes! Tilapia, red snapper, trout, or salmon are great alternatives that work well with blackening seasoning.
How spicy is blackened catfish?
The spice level depends on how much cayenne and black pepper you use in the seasoning. You can adjust the heat to your taste.
What makes “dirty rice” dirty?
Dirty rice gets its name from the brownish color that comes from cooking it with meat (such as sausage or chicken livers) and spices. The ingredients give the rice a deep, savory flavor.
Can I make dirty rice without meat?
Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and using mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a similar depth of flavor.
What can I serve with Cajun Blackened Catfish and Dirty Rice?
This dish pairs well with:
Coleslaw – adds a refreshing crunch
Steamed greens (collard greens or spinach) – for extra nutrients
Cornbread – for a classic Southern touch
Grilled vegetables – to balance out the meal
Can I bake or air-fry the catfish instead of pan-searing?
Yes! While traditional blackened catfish is cooked in a hot skillet, you can also:
Bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes
Air-fry it at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes
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