Turmeric Free Cajun-Spiced Catfish

Total time22 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time12 min

4.6

(13)

Cajun food has a reputation for bold, complex spice, and this catfish delivers every bit of that punch without a trace of turmeric anywhere in the blend. That matters more than you might think — many store-bought Cajun seasonings and spice mixes quietly sneak turmeric in for color, making label-reading a constant chore. Here, the heat and depth come entirely from smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a duo of dried herbs, so you know exactly what's going into every bite. The catfish fillets get pressed into that homemade blend on both sides, then hit a screaming-hot cast iron skillet with olive oil until the crust turns deeply golden and crackling. A few minutes per side is all it takes to get that gorgeous sear and perfectly flaky interior. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a scatter of fresh parsley, and you've got a plate that looks and tastes like serious Southern cooking — no compromises required.

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Ingredients

4 servings

For the Cajun spice blend

1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¾ tsp kosher salt

For the fish

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each), patted dry
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For serving

1 lemon, cut into wedges
2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

1
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and kosher salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
2
Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels, then sprinkle the spice blend evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.

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