- 2 1 1/2- to 1 3/4-pound whole catfish, cleaned, gutted
- 24 thin slices peeled fresh ginger (about 2 ounces)
- 3/4 cup rice flour
- 1 1/2 cups peanut oil
- Black Bean-Soy Sauce>/epi:recipeLink<
- 1 large tomato, seeded, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Using knife, make 6 diagonal slits on 1 side of each fish, spacing evenly and cutting to the bone. Insert 1 ginger slice into each slit. Turn fish over. Make 6 diagonal slits on second side of each fish; insert remaining sliced ginger. Sprinkle catfish with enough rice flour to coat on all sides.
- Heat 1 1/2 cups peanut oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat until thermometer registers 375°F. Gently slide 1 catfish into skillet and fry until golden and almost cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to rimmed baking sheet. Repeat frying with second catfish.
- Bake catfish in oven until cooked through and opaque in center, about 10 minutes. Transfer to platter. Pour Black Bean-Soy Sauce over. Garnish platter with tomato, green onions and lime wedges. Serve immediately.