Indulge in the rich flavors of our Baked Catfish with Roasted Garlic Compound Butter. Made with tender U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish fillets and a luscious compound butter infused with roasted garlic, this dish is a true delight for your taste buds.
Notes from #mscatfishlady on parchment
Before wrapping the compound butter in parchment paper, crumple the paper into a ball and then smooth it out again. This simple technique tames the parchment, ensuring it lays perfectly flat and is ready for use. For even smoother results, consider dampening your hands before crumpling to further flatten the paper.
A bit about compound butter
Compound butter is a mixture of butter and other ingredients, such as herbs, spices, or other flavorings, that is then reformed into a solid stick or log shape. It’s a great way to add flavor to dishes, as the butter can be sliced and used as a topping or seasoning. Here are some techniques for making compound butter successfully:
1. **Softened Butter:** Start with softened butter, as it will be easier to mix in the other ingredients evenly. Leave the butter out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
2. **Mixing Ingredients:** Combine the softened butter with your desired flavorings. This can include herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill, minced garlic, spices, citrus zest, or even cheeses like Parmesan. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
3. **Rolling and Shaping:** Once mixed, place the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log or a stick shape, using the wrap to help mold it. Roll the butter tightly in the wrap and twist the ends to secure.
4. **Chilling and Setting:** Place the wrapped butter in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until it is firm. This will allow the flavors to meld and the butter to set into its final shape.
5. **Storage:** Once set, you can keep the compound butter in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze it for longer storage. Slice off portions as needed for cooking or serving.
6. **Uses:** Compound butter can be used in a variety of ways, such as melting it over cooked vegetables, spreading it on bread or toast, or using it to flavor meats, fish, or pasta dishes.
Overall, making compound butter is a simple and versatile way to add flavor to your dishes, and you can get creative with different flavor combinations to suit your taste preferences.
What you’ll need:
- 2 Delta Pride Catfish fillets
- 12 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 stick of butter, softened
- 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
How to prepare:
COMBINE garlic and oil in a small saucepan, and bring to a low simmer over medium heat.
COOK for 12 minutes or until garlic cloves are cooked through and slightly brown. Remove garlic from oil, and let cool.
COMBINE roasted garlic and remaining ingredients in food processor, and blend until smooth. Transfer butter mixture to a sheet of waxed paper. Roll butter into a log; then twist the ends of the waxed paper to seal. Place in the fridge to chill.
PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Drizzle Catfish with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place fillets on a sheet pan, and bake 15 to 20 minutes or until fish is golden brown and flakes easily.
SERVE warm Catfish with a slice of compound butter. It will melt into a perfect sauce.