Catfish nuggets are a delicious appetizer, snack, or main course. They are easy to make and are widely enjoyed. You might love catfish nuggets with breading, but it isn’t the only way to make these nuggets. For those who don’t like breading their nuggets, making catfish nuggets without breading is just as tasty and easy. In fact, it is far more convenient and mess-free. So, if you are wondering how to cook catfish nuggets without breading… read ahead and find out!
Why Do You Bread Catfish Nuggets?
Whether it’s chicken or fish, most people like to bread nuggets. There are so many ways to bread catfish. You can use breadcrumbs, panko, tempura batter, or even cornmeal. There are a few reasons why breading enhances meat:
- They offer a delicious crunch.
- The thick coating ensures the meat inside stays moist, tender, and juicy.
Although breading is a great way to enjoy nuggets, you can make catfish nuggets without breading as well.
Can You Cook Catfish Nuggets Without Breading?
Although bread gives catfish nuggets a texture and crunch, you might not want to use breading for some reason. If so, the good news is you can make these nuggets without the breading as well. Cooking catfish nuggets without breading allows you to enjoy the fish’s deep flavor without needing additional ingredients/ plus, you can season the fish with your favorite spices and customize it according to your liking.
Different Ways of Cooking Catfish Nuggets Without Breading
Here are several ways you can cook catfish nuggets without breading:
- Pan: The easiest and quickest way to cook catfish nuggets without breading is by searing them over the stovetop in a pan. It is quite convenient. All you have to do is cook them in vegetable oil for 4 to 5 minutes per side. To get that grill car and marks, you can cook catfish nuggets in a grill pan as well.
- Oven: Baking catfish nuggets in an oven is also a convenient way to cook the fish to perfection, especially when cooking the nuggets in large batches. Bake the fish for 7 to 10 minutes at 350 degrees F.
- Air fryer: Another easy way to cook catfish nuggets without breading is by air frying them. As an air fryer uses almost no oil, it is a great option. Nuggets cooked in an air fryer are just as yummy as those cooked on a stovetop or oven.
Tips to Remember
Here are a few points to keep in mind when making catfish nuggets:
- When using fresh catfish, wash it under cold water thoroughly to get rid of the slime on it.
- If you are using frozen catfish fillets, thaw them first before cooking them. Place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw it.
- Always use a sharp knife to cut the fish, and also, cut it in even size to ensure even cooking.
- You can use any vegetable oil for cooking the nuggets. Canola or avocado oil is a good option.
- The easiest way to check the doneness of the fish is by using a kitchen thermometer. Its internal temperature should be 145 degrees F.
- Make sure you coat every piece of the fish with spices. Also, you can let the flavors sink in by marinating the fish for at least 30 minutes before cooking it.
How to Store Catfish Nuggets
Storing leftover catfish nuggets is easy. You can store them in an air-tight container and refrigerate them for up to three days.
You can also freeze catfish nuggets. The easiest way to do so is by placing them in a single layer on a baking tray, and flash freeze them for about 3 hours. Now place them in a freezer-safe container or a plastic zip lock bag and freeze for up to 5 months.
How to Cook Catfish Nuggets without Breading
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 lb catfish fillet, boneless
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½://www.target.com/p/organic-ground-garlic-powder-2-1oz-good-38-gather-8482/-/A-77616561#lnk=sametab” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener” title=”garlic powder” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked”>garlic powder
- ½;
Instructions
- Rinse the catfish fillet with cold water and place it in a strainer to get rid f excess water. Also, pat the fish dry using a kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the fish into equal pieces. You can cut them into 3 or 4-inch pieces depending on your liking.
- In a large bowl, add lemon juice, paprika powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add catfish nuggets to the bowl and toss so that the spices coat the fish evenly.
- Place a pan over medium heat and add oil. Once the oil heats up, add catfish nuggets. Cook the nuggets for about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Once done, remove the nuggets from the pan and place them on a serving plate.
- Serve with your favorite dip or side. Enjoy!
How to Cook Catfish Nuggets without Breading
Preparation time: 5 minutes; Cooking time: 10 minutes; Total time: 15 minutes; Servings: 4Ingredients
- 2 lb catfish fillet boneless
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Rinse the catfish fillet with cold water and place it in a strainer to get rid f excess water. Also, pat the fish dry using a kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the fish into equal pieces. You can cut them into 3 or 4-inch pieces depending on your liking.
- In a large bowl, add lemon juice, paprika powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add catfish nuggets to the bowl and toss so that the spices coat the fish evenly.
- Place a pan over medium heat and add oil. Once the oil heats up, add catfish nuggets. Cook the nuggets for about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Once done, remove the nuggets from the pan and place them on a serving plate.
- Serve with your favorite dip or side. Enjoy!
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