Although frying is by far the best way to prepare catfish, the fish is so inexpensive and available that it’s hard to resist using it in other styles. I find that blackened catfish can be cooled off and then added to a salad with good effect. Blackening works best with larger fillets, which are less good for frying.

To blacken fish properly requires a very hot skillet, which will throw off a lot of smoke and perhaps even a few flames when the butter-coated fish hits the pan. Be sure