Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMagdalena, A Maryland BistroLocal Tempura Fried Catfish Recipe

Local Tempura Fried Catfish Recipe

Time40m
Serves4

Served With House-Made Mumbo Sauce

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Ingredients

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Tempura Fried Catfish Ingredients

Method

Mumbo Sauce Ingredients

  1. 1

    Prepare the Mumbo Sauce

    In a bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Catfish

    In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold water until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  4. 4

    Fry the Catfish

    Dip each catfish fillet into the batter, allowing excess batter to drip off. Carefully place the battered fillet into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  5. 5

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried catfish from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with house-made mumbo sauce on the side.

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