Baked Catfish with Tiger Prawns and Cheesy Pepper Topping

This delightful baked catfish dish combines the savory flavors of fresh catfish fillets, succulent tiger prawns, and a creamy cheese topping with a hint of mustard seeds and herbs. With its rich texture and harmonious blend of spices, this recipe creates a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. The addition of bell peppers and tomato rounds not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to this dish. This meal is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a superior dining experience. Baking the fish preserves its moisture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The prawns add a touch of luxury, while the cheese provides a creamy contrast. Overall, this recipe is a balanced and flavorful treat for seafood lovers. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, it is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with a side of mixed greens or roasted vegetables for a complete and elegant meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 800 g catfish fillets
• 300 g tiger prawns
• 150 g Russian cheese
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 eggs
• 150 g cream
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Butter for sautéing prawns
• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley

Spices and Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• Lemon pepper to taste
• Himalayan salt to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation: Begin by marinating the fresh catfish fillets for 2-3 days for optimal flavor enhancement.
2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) to preheat.
3. Prepare Baking Sheet: Place parchment paper on a baking pan and arrange the catfish fillets skin-side down.
4. Season the Catfish: Drizzle Olive oil over the fish, then season with lemon pepper and Himalayan salt to taste.
5. Add Vegetables: Slice the tomato into rings and the bell pepper into strips; layer these over the catfish.
6. Sauté Prawns: In a pan, melt some butter and lightly sauté the tiger prawns until they begin to turn pink, then add them on top of the vegetables.
7. Bake Initial Stage: Place the baking tray into the oven and let it bake for 20 minutes.
8. Cheese Topping: While it bakes, in a bowl, mix grated Russian cheese, cream (1 tablespoon), chopped dill, parsley, mustard seeds, and beaten eggs.
9. First Layer: After 20 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and spread the cheese mixture over the fish and vegetables.
10. Final Bake: Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
11. Garnish with Cream: After removing from the oven, drizzle remaining cream over the cheese topping artistically.
12. Final Bake Stage: Allow it to bake for an additional 10 minutes to set.
13. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh dill and parsley.
14. Rest Before Serving: Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
15. Preparation Tips: Ensure prawns are just cooked to maintain their texture and juiciness.
16. Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a tangy taste.
17. Flavor Variation: Add a tsp of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
18. Plating Suggestion: Serve with a wedge of lemon for extra zest.
19. Wine Pairing: A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs well.
20. Complete the Experience: Enjoy with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing side.

Tips

• Substitution: For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or chives.
• Uniform Cooking: Ensure prawns and fish are similar sizes for even cooking.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fats: 20 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace prawns with marinated tofu or mushrooms.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
• Low Carb: Serve on cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with steamed asparagus or roasted potatoes.
• Garnish: Top with fresh lemon zest for a citrusy spark.
• Dressing: Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the fish for a sweet tang.

Best Places

Le Bernardin - Exquisite French seafood with a sophisticated ambiance. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.

Nobu - Renowned for its fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, specializing in seafood. Location: 105 Hudson St, New York, USA.

The Fat Duck - Innovative and experimental dining experience. Location: High St, Bray, England.

Osteria Francescana - Celebrated for its modern Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.

Sukiyabashi Jiro - Revered sushi restaurant with an intense focus on quality. Location: 4 Chome-2-15 Ginza, Tokyo, Japan.

Mugaritz - Known for avant-garde Spanish food. Location: Aldura Aldea, s/n, Errenteria, Spain.

El Celler de Can Roca - A family-run establishment dedicated to inventive Catalonia cuisine. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, Girona, Spain.

Narisawa - Sustainable fine dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Location: 2 Chome-6-15 Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.

Azurmendi - Awarded for its eco-conscious and modern Basque cuisine. Location: Legina Auzoa, s/n, Larrabetzu, Spain.

Pierre Gagnaire - Innovative French dishes combining flavors with finesse. Location: 6 Rue Balzac, Paris, France.