Remembering the Past, Embracing the Future
Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, holds immense significance in American history. It marks the day when Union soldiers arrived in Texas to declare the Emancipation Proclamation, granting freedom to enslaved Black people. This celebration symbolizes the ongoing struggle for equality and serves as a reminder that true freedom can only be achieved when everyone is liberated.
As a resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the birthplace of the original Black Wall Street, I have a strong connection to Juneteenth. The Black Wall Street was a vibrant community housing Black-owned businesses and homes until it tragically fell victim to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Despite the limited awareness of this devastating event, Juneteenth remains an occasion for my community to unite and commemorate our culture, history, and, of course, indulge in delectable food.
A Keto Twist on a Beloved Southern Classic
One dish that always evokes memories of Juneteenth celebrations is catfish. Traditionally, catfish is coated in cornmeal and deep-fried to perfection. However, since adopting a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, I sought a way to savor catfish in accordance with my dietary choices. That’s when I devised this tantalizing recipe for blackened catfish.
Instead of breading, I use a flavorsome blackened seasoning that imparts tenderness, flakiness, and a touch of spice to the dish. This recipe seamlessly blends my Southern heritage with my commitment to a low-carb lifestyle. Regardless of whether you follow a keto diet or not, this dish is bound to captivate your taste buds.
How to Prepare Blackened Catfish | Keto, Low-Carb
To create this exquisite blackened catfish, gather a few simple ingredients:
- Sea Salt
- Smoked Paprika
- Cayenne Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Dried Celery
- Garlic Powder
- Black Pepper
Combine these spices in a small bowl or shallow dish, creating the blackened seasoning blend. Squeeze fresh lime juice over your catfish fillets and generously coat them with the spice blend.
In a cast iron skillet, heat some extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the catfish fillets for approximately 5 minutes on each side, ensuring they become slightly flaky to the touch.
For those desiring an extra burst of flavor, consider crafting a quick salsa to serve alongside the catfish. Dice some tomatoes, chop cilantro and jalapeno, and add diced cucumber. Finish off the salsa by squeezing fresh lime juice over the mixture and seasoning it with sea salt. This vibrant salsa adds a refreshing and tangy element to the dish.
Join the Juneteenth Celebration
Juneteenth is a time for unity, honoring our history, and relishing in mouthwatering cuisine. To make this year’s Juneteenth cookout even more extraordinary, I have collaborated with a group of talented Black food bloggers. We are sharing our unique food stories and recipes, ensuring that our voices are heard within an industry that often overlooks us.
Take a moment to explore the incredible recipes from these bloggers – your taste buds will express gratitude. Hook’d Up Bar and Grill takes immense pride in supporting and uplifting the Black culinary community.
Let us continue to commemorate the past, embrace our heritage, and together, build a brighter future.
Peace,
Adri