Grilled Catfish with Butcher BBQ's Signature Seasonings

Grilled Catfish May Not Be the Way You Think of Catfish, But It Will Be After This

When you think of barbecue, catfish may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But let me tell you, this unexpected pairing is a match made in heaven. With the help of Butcher BBQ's award-winning sauces, rubs, and meat injections, you can transform a humble catfish fillet into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Butcher BBQ is the brainchild of a two-time World BBQ Champion and two-time BBQ Hall of Fame Inductee, so you know you're in good hands. Their lineup of products includes everything you need to take your grilling game to the next level, from the Queen Bee cornmeal coating to the savory Grilling Addiction seasoning. And with free shipping available, it's never been easier to get your hands on these top-notch BBQ essentials.

Why Choose Catfish for Grilling?

Catfish may not be the first protein that comes to mind when you think of grilling, but there are plenty of reasons why it's a fantastic choice. For starters, catfish has a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the bold, smoky notes of barbecue. Its mild, slightly sweet taste provides the perfect canvas for the bold flavors of Butcher BBQ's seasonings and sauces.

But the benefits of grilling catfish don't stop there. Catfish is also an incredibly healthy protein, packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. And because it's a relatively lean fish, it's a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Finally, catfish is incredibly versatile when it comes to cooking methods. Whether you opt for direct grilling, foil packet cooking, or plank grilling, this adaptable fish will soak up all the smoky, savory goodness you throw its way.

Preparing the Catfish

When it comes to grilling catfish, the key is to start with the freshest, highest-quality fillets you can find. Look for catfish that is firm to the touch, with a bright, clean appearance and no signs of discoloration or off-odors.

Once you've selected your catfish, it's time to prepare it for the grill. Start by rinsing the fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. If the fillets have any skin or bones, be sure to remove them before seasoning.

Now it's time to get creative with your marinade or seasoning. Butcher BBQ offers a wide range of options to suit every taste, from the sweet and tangy try Butcher BBQ Queen Bee Honey Rub in the cornmeal coating for the good old fashion way of frying or in an air fryer, for a Cajun-inspired 5 Alarm Honey Rub seasoning. If you're in the mood for something more savory, their Private Seasoning or Grilling Addiction blends are sure to hit the spot.

Grilling Methods

When it comes to grilling catfish, you have a few different options to choose from. For a classic, direct-grilling approach, simply oil your grill grates and cook the fillets over medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they flake easily with a fork.

If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor, try the foil packet method. Simply place your seasoned catfish fillets in the center of a large sheet of heavy-duty foil, along with any desired vegetables or aromatics. Fold the foil over the fillets to create a sealed packet, then grill for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For a truly unique presentation, consider plank grilling. Soak a cedar or alder wood plank in water for at least 30 minutes, then place your seasoned catfish fillets on the plank and grill over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.

Time and Temperature Guidelines

Regardless of your grilling method, it's important to pay close attention to the time and temperature to ensure your catfish comes out perfectly cooked. The ideal grilling temperature for catfish is between 400-450°F, which will help to create a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

As for cooking times, the thickness of your catfish fillets will be the biggest factor. Thinner fillets (1/2 inch or less) will typically take 4-6 minutes per side, while thicker fillets (3/4 inch or more) may require 6-8 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on your catfish and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Serving Suggestions

Once your catfish is grilled to perfection, it's time to start thinking about side dishes and sauces. Butcher BBQ's lineup of award-winning barbecue sauces, from the sweet and tangy Queen Bee to the bold and spicy 5 Alarm, are the perfect accompaniment to your grilled catfish.

For a classic pairing, serve your catfish with a side of creamy coleslaw and some fluffy cornbread. Or, for a more Cajun-inspired twist, try pairing it with dirty rice, collard greens, and a drizzle of the Sweet Chipotle sauce.

No matter how you choose to serve it, one thing is for sure: with the help of Butcher BBQ's top-notch seasonings and sauces, your grilled catfish is sure to be the star of the show.

Conclusion

Grilling catfish may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of barbecue, but with the help of Butcher BBQ's award-winning products, it's a flavor combination that's sure to impress. From the sweet and tangy Queen Bee cornmeal coating to the bold and savory Grilling Addiction seasoning, Butcher BBQ has everything you need to take your catfish grilling game to the next level.

So why not step outside your comfort zone and give this unexpected pairing a try? With its unique flavor profile, health benefits, and versatility in cooking methods, catfish is the perfect protein to showcase the bold, smoky flavors of Butcher BBQ's signature seasonings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.