Ingredients

1 whole catfish , clean and pad dry
salt
cornstarch
oil
2 tablespoons fresh ginger , strips
1 green onion , strip
1 tablespoon garlic , minced
1 lb rock shrimp
3 tablespoons peanut oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1 1/2 cups clam juice
1/2 cup chinese rice wine
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
cornstarch roux
1 bunch fresh cilantro
Whole Fried Catfish is a popular dish in Southern cuisine, where catfish thrives in the freshwater rivers and ponds. The crispy and savory fried catfish is often served with chips, hushpuppies, or coleslaw to balance the flavor and texture. The ginger shrimp sauce is a Chinese-inspired dipping sauce that complements the catfish with its umami, vinegary, and slightly spicy flavor. The dish is easy to prepare but requires some equipment and technique to handle the catfish and maintain the oil temperature. It is a perfect choice for a family dinner or special occasion.

Instructions

1.Use a knife to make several slits on the skin side of the catfish, and season with salt and pepper.
2.Lightly coat the catfish with cornstarch, and shake off any excess powder.
3.Heat enough oil in a wok or skillet to well-cover the catfish.
4.Fry the catfish over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and completely cooked.
5.Remove from heat and place on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
6.Meanwhile, heat oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat, and sauté ginger, green onion, and garlic until fragrant.
7.Add rock shrimp, peanut oil, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper, and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes.
8.Pour in clam juice, Chinese rice wine, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
9.Stir in cornstarch roux to thicken the sauce, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
10.Pour the ginger shrimp sauce over the fried catfish, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

PROS

Fried catfish is crispy outside and juicy inside with slightly sweet and mild meat flavor, while the shrimp sauce adds a delightful savory note with aromatic ginger.

Catfish is also a good source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.

CONS

Catfish can be high in mercury, and some people may not like the fishy smell or the mud taste.

The deep frying process adds fat, calories, and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Catfish is a low-fat and low-calorie source of protein that may help support muscle growth and repair.
It also features high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids that may aid in reducing inflammation and improving brain function.
Ginger contains gingerol, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and may also help reduce nausea and muscle pain.

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