Caribbean Fried Catfish

steps

In a bowl, combine buttermilk, shallots, garlic, thyme, calabrese oil, puree, red pepper flakes, and salt and stir to combine. Arrange catfish in a wide, shallow bowl or pie plate; pour brine over fish. Let sit for about 2 hours.

Pour about 1 inch of oil into a deep, heavy skillet or dutch oven and place over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, combine jerk spice mix with flour in a clean pie plate. Take the fish out of the buttermilk and dredge filets in flour mixture to coat thoroughly. Shake off excess flour mixture.

When oil temperature reaches about 325 degrees (use a candy thermometer or drop a pinch of the flour mixture into the oil; if it bubbles and floats, the oil is ready), fry catfish in batches for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with collard greens or a salad.

Jerk Spice Mix

6 tablespoons cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Store in an airtight container.