Ranchero Catfish

Catfish Institute

Serves 4

4 catfish fillets, 4 – 6 ounces each

1 cup finely crushed tortilla chips [crumb size]

2 teaspoons chili powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

3 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 cup of your favorite salsa

¼ cup minced fresh cilantro, optional

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Lightly oil a baking sheet.

Cut fillets in half. Mix crushed tortilla chips, chili powder, salt and pepper in a shallow dish. Mix lime juice and oil in another shallow dish.

Dip catfish in the lime mixture, then immediately dredge in the seasoned tortilla crumbs to coat. Place on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle catfish with any remaining tortilla crumbs. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp and golden or when fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Warm salsa in a small saucepan over low heat.

Arrange catfish on serving plates and spoon ½ cup of salsa (or to taste) over top. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve.