Spicy Sesame Fried Catfish with Garlic Chili Mayo

Ingredients

• 12 oz catfish fillets
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (for frying)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp sriracha (or chili sauce)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp green onions, sliced(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (15 minutes): Pat catfish dry, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle cornstarch over the fillets and lightly press to coat.

2. 2

   Cook (12 minutes): Heat neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish in batches if needed, 4–6 minutes per side, until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temp 145°F/63°C). Transfer to a plate.

3. 3

   Make the garlic chili mayo (during the last few minutes of frying): Stir mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and minced garlic until smooth.

4. 4

   Serve: Drizzle or dollop garlic chili mayo over the fried catfish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds (and green onions if using).