Perfectly Grilled BBQ Catfish Fillet
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat15gram
Protein23gram
Ingredients
- Catfish fillets (fresh, skin on) - choose firm, moist fillets with no fishy odor4 pieces (approx. 150g each)
- Olive oil (extra virgin preferred for flavor)2 tbsp
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)1 tbsp
- Garlic (minced)2 cloves
- Paprika (smoked paprika adds nice flavor)1 tsp
- Salt (to taste)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish2 tbsp
This easy-to-follow recipe shows you how to grill catfish fillets to tender, flaky perfection on your BBQ. With a flavorful marinade and step-by-step guidance, even beginner cooks can achieve delicious catfish with appealing char marks and juicy texture. The total ingredient cost is approximately $10 / €9 / £8 / ₹820, making it a budget-friendly meal. Each serving contains around 250 calories and fits well within a balanced diet. This dish is straightforward to prepare and should take about 30 minutes in total, including cooking and preparation. Perfect for a warming summer meal or a quick weeknight dinner!
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Marinade
1In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This marinade will infuse the catfish with bright, smoky flavor.
Marinate the Catfish
2Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over them, making sure each gets coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes but not longer to avoid 'cooking' the fish with lemon juice.
Preheat the Grill
3Prepare your grill for medium heat cooking, aiming for around 175-190°C (350-375°F). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
Grill the Catfish Fillets
4Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully with a spatula. The catfish is done when the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Rest and Serve
5Remove the catfish from the grill and let it rest for 3 minutes. This helps redistribute juices. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Cooking Tips
1Always wash your hands and utensils after handling raw fish to avoid cross-contamination.
2Use a clean, food-grade brush or cloth to apply oil on grill grates to prevent fish from sticking.
3If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the catfish fillets in a preheated grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
4To add smoky flavor without a grill, add a touch of smoked paprika or a smoking liquid to the marinade.
Equipment Needed
- Grill (charcoal or gas) or grill pan
- Tongs or fish spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer (recommended for food safety)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Catfish fillets (fresh, 4 pieces, about 600g total) - approx. $8
- [ ] Olive oil (small bottle) - approx. $0.50
- [ ] Lemon (1 large, for juice) - approx. $0.30
- [ ] Garlic (1 bulb, for cloves) - approx. $0.20
- [ ] Paprika (spice jar) - approx. $1
- [ ] Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional) - approx. $0.70
Tips for shopping:
- Choose catfish fillets that are firm to the touch and smell fresh, not fishy.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor for marinades.
- Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor.
FAQ
How do I know when the catfish is fully cooked?
The catfish is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F), the flesh becomes opaque, and it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
Yes, thaw frozen catfish completely in the refrigerator before grilling to ensure even cooking and safety.
Is it necessary to marinate the catfish?
Marinating adds flavor and helps keep the fish moist, but you can also season directly if short on time.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop to cook the catfish with similar results.