Crispy Fried Whole Catfish with Asian Slaw

A Catfish recipe for whole catfish paired with a slaw featuring Asian spices and vegetables.
== Ingredients ==
=== Catfish ===
* 2 U.S. farm-raised catfish, gutted (about 1 pound each)
* 8 – 10 slices garlic, cut into slivers
* 8 – 10 slices fresh ginger
* ¼ cup sesame oil
* 1 cup milk
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* salt and freshly ground black pepper
=== Asian Slaw ===
* 1 cup of each of the following:
** finely julienned cucumber
** finely julienned carrots
** finely julienned green onions
** finely julienned red bell peppers
** rice noodles hydrated as package directs
* ½ cup cooked sticky or jasmine rice
* ½ teaspoon black sesame seed
* for garnish: fresh cilantro leaves
=== Dressing ===
* ½ cup rice vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 2 tablespoons water
* 2 teaspoons Asian chile paste (see note)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* for the slaw: cup of each of the following:
== Directions ==
# Cut slits in the sides of each catfish. Insert slivers of garlic and ginger into slits. Coat with sesame oil. Set aside on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
# Pour milk into a shallow dish. Place flour in shallow dish or on a piece of wax paper and season with salt and pepper.
# Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer, a wok or a large, deep skillet to 350°F on a deep-frying thermometer. Roll each catfish in milk, then dredge in the seasoned flour. Place one catfish at a time in the hot oil and fry, turning to cook on all sides, about 8 minutes or until golden brown and fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Drain on paper towels. Arrange a thin layer of Asian slaw on each serving plate and top with fried catfish. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and serve with sticky or jasmine rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
=== Dressing ===
# Mix vinegar, sugar, water, chile paste and oil in a chilled small bowl until well blended.
=== Asian Slaw ===
# Mix cucumber, carrots, green onions, red pepper and rice noodles in a large bowl.
# Add dressing and toss until well combined.
__NOTOC__
Category:Black sesame seed Recipes
Category:Carrot Recipes
Category:Cucumber Recipes
Category:Ethnic catfish Recipes
Category:Green onion Recipes
Category:Jasmine rice Recipes
Category:Peanut oil Recipes
Category:Red bell pepper Recipes
Category:Rice noodle Recipes