Recipe: Catfish Poppers with Spicy Dipping Sauce (makes 45 poppers)

CATFISH POPPERS WITH SPICY DIPPING SAUCE

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk
1 3/4 pounds catfish fillets, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/2 cups Japanese breadcrumbs (Panko)
Vegetable oil
Spicy Dipping Sauce (recipe follows)

Combine first 3 ingredients; whisk together egg and milk. Dredge catfish pieces in flour mixture, and dip in egg mixture. Dredge in breadcrumbs.

Pour oil to a depth of 1/2 inch in a large skillet; heat to 375 degrees F.

Fry catfish pieces, in batches, 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Serve with Spicy Dipping Sauce.

SPICY DIPPING SAUCE
Makes 1 cup

3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup spicy cocktail sauce
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
Old Bay seasoning (optional)

Stir together first 4 ingredients. Cover and chill until ready to serve. Sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning, if desired.

Makes 15 appetizer servings (about 45 poppers)
Source; Southern Living magazine, April 2006