Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb catfish nuggets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Substitutions:
- Almond milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
- Gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive option.
Instructions
- Preparation of the Catfish: Begin by rinsing your catfish nuggets under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing any excess moisture, ensuring the seasonings stick and the nuggets crisp up nicely.
- Marinating the Catfish: In a mixing bowl, soak the catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the fish, making it juicier after cooking.
- Seasoning Mix Preparation: While the catfish is marinating, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Coating the Catfish: Once marinated, remove each nugget from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the nuggets in the flour mixture until they are completely coated. Tap off any excess flour.
- Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture as it ensures the air fryer is at the ideal cooking temperature from the start.
- Arranging the Catfish: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the catfish nuggets in the basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them for air to circulate. This ensures even cooking and crisping.
- Cooking Time and Temperature: Cook the catfish nuggets at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, flip the nuggets to ensure they crisp evenly on both sides. The high cooking temperature is key for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Serving: Once cooked, transfer the catfish nuggets to a serving plate. They can be enjoyed as is or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Catfish: Select fresh or properly thawed catfish nuggets for the best flavor and texture. Freshness is key to avoiding any “fishy” taste.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings based on your preference. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can give the nuggets a spicy kick, while a sprinkle of dried herbs can add a fragrant note.
- Cooking in Batches: If you’re cooking a large quantity, it’s best to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can result in unevenly cooked nuggets.
- Serving Ideas: Serve these catfish nuggets with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or your favorite vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ pound per serving
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets