Few things are more delightful than a backyard fish fry, filled with crispy fried fish and great company. It’s a tradition loved across the country, bringing together friends and family to celebrate special occasions while savoring the flavors of freshly caught fish. And when it comes to adding a touch of perfection to your fish fry, this black drum recipe is an absolute winner.
Is Black Drum Fish as Tasty as It Sounds?
Black drum fish can be found in the Atlantic Ocean, from New England all the way down to the Mexican coast, with a prominent presence along the Texas coastline. These fish, also known as redfish, are renowned for their size and remarkable taste. Boasting a mild, sweet flavor and firm, flaky flesh, black drum fish is highly versatile and pairs well with various recipes. Its taste is often compared to that of red snapper — a true seafood delicacy.
Discover the Best Way to Cook Black Drum Fish
Black drum fish shines in its versatility, allowing you to explore different cooking methods and experiment with an array of seasonings and marinades. Apart from being the perfect centerpiece for a fish fry, you can also pan-fry or bake it in the oven for a delightful meal. To start, simply sauté your fish fillet in a skillet over medium-high heat with your choice of unsalted butter, vegetable oil, or extra virgin olive oil.
Here’s an easy-to-follow black drum fish recipe that works wonders in a cast-iron skillet, enhanced with a burst of lemon juice and a blend of irresistible seasonings.
Davis Turner of Huckleberry adds a kick to this fried black drum recipe by expertly combining garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, you can always sprinkle some lemon pepper, toss in some minced garlic, or add a touch of red pepper. In case you’re pressed for time, taco seasoning or Cajun seasoning can also lend that necessary kick without the hassle of multiple spices.
The Art of Making Fried Black Drum Fish
To create this culinary masterpiece, here’s what you need to do:
- Preheat your fryer or an oiled frying pan to a temperature of 350 degrees F.
- Cut your black drum fish fillets into 4 oz portions, approximately 3×3 inches in size.
- Soak the fish fillets in an egg wash or buttermilk, and place them in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl and set them aside.
- Set up a breading station, consisting of a tray with the breading, a tray with the fish, and a tray to place the breaded fish on.
- Dip each piece of black drum fish into the breading mix, ensuring a thorough coating. Allow the excess liquid to drain off before placing the fish in the breading mixture. To prevent overcrowding, bread only a few pieces at a time. Once all the fillets are breaded, place them on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 5 minutes.
- Once your seafood masterpiece is ready, test the preheated fryer with one piece of fish to ensure it’s perfectly heated. Then, fry your fish in batches for 4 to 5 minutes each, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
- Once the fillets have reached the ideal crispiness, remove them from the fryer and let the excess oil drain off. Place them on a tray with a wire rack or paper towel. Sprinkle a dash of salt, serve with a refreshing lemon wedge, and get ready to indulge in the culinary delight that awaits you.
Embrace the tantalizing flavors of this fried black drum recipe and be prepared to win over your guests at your next fish fry. Visit Ekilove for more mouthwatering recipes and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey. Enjoy!
