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Easy Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets with Crispy Breading

Catfish nuggets are a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, celebrated for their tender texture and rich flavour. However, frying them can be a messy and time-consuming process. Enter the air fryer—a kitchen marvel that delivers the crunch and flavour of traditional frying without the excess oil. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare easy air fryer catfish nuggets with a crispy breading that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 600g catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized nuggets
• 200g cornmeal
• 100g all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 200ml buttermilk (or whole milk with a splash of lemon juice)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil spray (for crisping)

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate the Fish:
   Begin by marinating the catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This not only infuses flavour but also helps tenderise the fish, creating a more succulent bite.

2. Prepare the Breading Station:
   While the fish is marinating, set up a breading station. In one bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.

3. Bread the Catfish Nuggets:
   Once the catfish has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each nugget first in the beaten eggs and then in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Set aside on a plate.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about five minutes. This step is essential for achieving that perfect crunch.

5. Air Fry the Nuggets:
   Lightly spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded catfish nuggets in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

6. Cooking Time:
   Air fry the catfish nuggets for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The nuggets should be golden brown and crispy when done. If necessary, you can adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer’s performance.

7. Serve:
   Remove the nuggets from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with your favourite dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or a zesty lemon aioli. Accompany with a fresh side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Quality of Fish: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen catfish for the best taste and texture.
• Customisation: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breading mix. Adding cayenne pepper can provide a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Batch Cooking: If you’re preparing this for a larger group, consider keeping the cooked nuggets warm in a low oven while you finish air frying the remaining batches.

Conclusion

Easy air fryer catfish nuggets with crispy breading are not only simple to make but also a healthier alternative to deep-frying. They embody the essence of Southern comfort food while being easily adaptable for modern palates. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favourite on your dining table. Enjoy the delightful crunch and mouth-watering flavours that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern cuisine!

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