RECIPE

© Melanie Acevedo

Fried-Catfish Sandwiches with Spicy Mayonnaise

• Recipe by Quick From Scratch Fish & Shellfish

• Fast

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
2. 3/4 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
3. 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
4. 4 large crusty rolls, split
5. 3/4 cup cornmeal
6. 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
7. 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
8. 2 pounds catfish fillets
9. 2 eggs, beaten to mix
10. 1/4 cup cooking oil
11. 3 cups tender greens, such as spinach or leaf lettuce (about 2 ounces)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper, and the cayenne. Spread the mayonnaise mixture on the rolls.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal with the salt, thyme, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Dip the fillets into the beaten eggs and then into the seasoned cornmeal. Shake off the excess cornmeal.
3. In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the cornmeal-coated fish and fry, turning once, until golden on the outside and just done in the center, about 4 minutes per side for 3/4-inch-thick fillets. Drain the fish on paper towels. Sandwich the catfish and greens in the rolls.

Notes

Fish Alternatives
Substitute moderately firm, lean fillets for the catfish. Scrod, rockfish, ocean perch, haddock, or tilefish are good options.