This summer marks the 85th anniversary of a landmark that opened on Lake Maurepas at Pass Manchac: Middendorfs, the restaurant best known as the home of thin-cut fried catfish. Oktoberfest seems to be as much a part of Middendorf's now as our catfish." Oktoberfest at Middendorf's Slidell will be held every Friday for six weeks, Oktober 4, 2019 - November 8, 2019. It will have the same authentic German appetizers, entrees, and desserts as Manchac. Try something different. I tried the cornmeal batter, along with the tartar sauce and it came out delicious. Well Thank you, Maggie! Remove catfish from oil and let drain on paper towels. I use a 10"inch cast-iron skillet and cook two fillets at a time. Remove to the prepared wire rack. Compliments you when you've had a bad day. To do that, we need The area has a small pond and lots of room for our feathered friends to run. Meanwhile, whisk together the cornmeal, corn flour and Cajun seasoning in a pie plate or casserole dish. ADVOCATE PHOTO BY J.T. Drain catfish. And, who could forget the Middendorfs Express G model train. Our goal is to have you leave with a full belly and the memory of a great time. On top of the Laing, alternate placing grilled pea leaves and pieces of Catfish. "Catfish is the reason to eat at Middendorf's. Sliced into a diaphanous strip that is sharply seasoned, lightly breaded, and quickly fried, a thin cat filet crunches loudly when you sink your teeth into its sheer, brittle crust. It's my go to every time. Quick - each fillet only takes about 5-minutes to fry Restaurant quality fried catfish fillets that actually have flavor Keep each filet chilled until you are ready. I say the thick, because it's about as thick as I remember the thin fish being when I first started eating there . You'll be glad you checked this place out. Frying fish isn't hard, but requires a little practice and expertise. This is important and key to this recipe. The long drive is an unacceptable complication for a fair number of enthusiasm-challenged people, who will tell you that it's overrated. Required fields are marked *. The service staff is always been stressed, and while they deliver everything on time, they don't visit the table as much as you might expect. This is natural. Oktoberfest runs every Wednesday and Thursday for 6 weeks. Have fried catfish like this for years. In batches, dredge the fish through the egg mixture and then through the cornmeal mixture, then add to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. In 2007, the restaurant was purchased from the family by Horst and Karen Pfeifer. Shallow-fry catfish pieces for 2 minutes on each side. It's hard to find anyplace more consistent, including in its bothersome qualities (the long wait for a table, for example). I made this last night, turned out Amazing!!!!! If you can't get to Middendorf's in Louisiana, then this thin fried catfish recipe is the next best thing! your help. Grill pea leaves until charred and tender. I'd skip the appetizer, not worth it. Fill a large Dutch oven fitted with a deep-frying thermometer halfway with oil and heat to 360 degrees F. Line a sheet tray with paper towels and fit with a wire rack. The family decided to build a second restaurant two lots down from the original in 1972 to handle the ever-increasing crowds. Thank you for sharing:). Just get a hoagie bun, add a little Louisiana remoulade sauce or tartar sauce, some lettuce and a fried catfish fillet! We explained this to the waitress, and, she acknowledged. In the process of making this right now, you said to coat twice and I'm Confused, do I dip the fish back into the buttermilk after I coat it with the cornmeal the first time? If using frozen catfish, thaw fish first by rinsing in cold water in a colander or allowing to thaw in the refrigerator, Use a thermometer; internal temperature should be 145F. If you don't have fresh catfish, use frozen. And were plannin on being here for 40 more. Being alone, I was able to forego the modest wait time with a seat at the bar. All rights reserved. Now you have buttermilk! We explained this to the waitress, and, she acknowledged. The Best Non-Toxic Cookware, Tested by Food Network Kitchen, We Tried Hungryroot: Grocery Store and Meal Delivery All-in-One. On Thursday, July 1, 2021 from 11am until 6pm, Middendorf's, in Manchac and Slidell, is hosting a blood drive that offers free thin fried catfish and an awesome t-shirt for all donors. It's my go to every time. Been going At the time of the Pulitzer Prize honor, the newspaper described her as a young well-spoken Metairie housewife and mother. You'll be glad you checked this place out. Bob Temp! Catfish fried in a tasty cornmeal batter, served with homemade tartar sauce. Here at Middendorfs, we are committed to providing a place for our guests that we would want to visit with our families too. Middendorf's: Thin-Fried Catfish is One of Many Delicious Options - See 564 traveler reviews, 220 candid photos, and great deals for Akers, LA, at Tripadvisor. There is no place we've visited with anything like the thin fried catfish served. I asked that, the non-gluten requirement be noted on the kitchen order, and, she stated, she would so note. Used a thermometer to get exact temperature. Middendorf's is the Mecca of fried Catfish, specifically, thin fried catfish. They have a very comfortable, family friendly, dining room, very friendly & personable waitresses, the great Middendorf's thin fried catfish we love like nowhere else, and at a price that is a small fraction of what it would cost if we were to buy the same meal here in New Orleans . The story of Middendorfs Restaurant, how it came to be and its continued success, is one of perseverance and determination. If the fish is wrapped in a sealed plastic package, remove it from the package before thawing in the fridge. Thank you! Middendorf's secret is out as owner Horst Pfeifer tells how their thin fried catfish is made NOLA.com 94.7K subscribers Subscribe 83 Share 16K views 7 years ago Horst Pfeifer, owner of. Laing:1 tablespoon coconut oil1 shallot, sliced3 garlic cloves, slicedOne 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced1 red Thai chile1 tablespoon fermented Fresno hot sauce (or any hot sauce)1 can coconut milk1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed, Catfish:1 pound Maryland blue catfish, cut into -inch strips1 tablespoon salt1 tablespoon sugar cup cornmeal2 tablespoons cornstarchCanola oil for frying, To Assemble and Serve:1 cup pea leaves1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil1 tablespoon kimchi, chopped2 tablespoons pork floss1 teaspoon gochugaru. these links. Flew into MSY today for a family event and stopped at Mittendorfs on the way home. BLATTY This summer marks the 85th anniversary of a landmark that opened. This summer marks the 85th anniversary of a landmark that opened on Lake Maurepas at Pass Manchac: Middendorfs, the restaurant best known as the home of thin-cut fried catfish. Make your own! We would be honored for you to be part of our history, part of the Middendorfs family. If the darker color bother you, start over with new oil for each batch. First: Chill the catfish for a good 15 to 20 minutes in the freezer. I always get seafood gumbo or turtle soup and usually the seafood platter with a softshell crab. "Best Thin Fried Catfish in Louisiana!" Review of Middendorf's 220 photos Middendorf's 30160 Hwy 51 S., Akers, LA 70421 +1 985-386-6666 Website E-mail Improve this listing Ranked #1 of 2 Restaurants in Akers 564 Reviews Price range: $20 - $35 Cuisines: Seafood More restaurant details RickyH59 Houston, Texas 335 197 This was crisp and delish. This is the only fried catfish recipe I use! But through its entire long history, New Orleanians have always considered it to be as essential part of the dining scene, and worth the forty-mile trip to dine there. Then work on your appetite with images of the great raw and broiled oysters, the stuffed crabs, and the soft-shell crabs in their season (warm months). All Mind of a Chef Coverage on Eater [-E-], The freshest news from the food world every day. Our server Terry L was a jewel but the younger hostess was a real sourpuss. My favorites are the thin fried catfish and the crawfish cakes. Thank you very much! This is the most common challenge for homemade fried fish. Repeat with the remaining catfish. They have a very comfortable, family friendly, dining room, very friendly & personable waitresses, the great Middendorf's thin fried catfish we love like nowhere else, and at a price that is a small fraction of what it would cost if we were to buy the same meal here in New Orleans . I love to hear from you! Louis and Josie were the entire staff. Catfish was great! Different owners these days, but the food is as good as always. If you have it in your files could you send it to me please? Coleslaw always goes well, as does Smothered Okra and Tomatoes, Maple Baked Beans, Pinto Beans and Rice and a heapin' bowl of Southern collard greens! calendar.gambitweekly.com. I think you'll find this simple method results in the best catfish breading - light, crispy and flavorful! Become a Gambit member today and help us continue our mission, For more upcoming events visit In 2007, the restaurant was purchased by restaurateurs Horst and Karen Pfeifer. Hopefully I will get a response soon, if not, I'm double Dippin! If it sizzles, it's hot enough. It was delicious! I love the crunchy coating and it was very easy to make! After Hurricane Katrina devastated the area, Bella Luna was closed. Add shallots, garlic, and ginger and saut until soft. Did the same with chicken but with seasoned flour., Hey Lynda! I coat it twice with the cornmeal. First year attending their fettuccine frenzy and will also be our last. Although they have not strayed from the recipes and specialities that made Middendorfs famous, this energetic husband-wife team are always looking for fun and exciting things to add to the Middendorfs experience. At times, it has also been home to ducks, geese and even turkeys. If you can't get to Middendorf's in Louisiana, then this thin fried catfish recipe is the next best thing! Great recipe! I travel from TX to eat here Thin fried catfish is the best in the country! I'm not apprehensive about frying fish anymore. Chefs are spotlighting their culinary heritage on tasting menus, at buzzy pop-ups, and at new restaurants across the country, By submitting your email, you agree to our, Watch Sean Brock and John Currence Cook Thin-Fried Catfish on Mind of aChef, KFC is bringing back its breadless fried chicken sandwich, and its 2010 all over again, Reba McEntire is the latest country superstar getting into the hospitality game, and her Atoka, Oklahoma restaurant feels welcoming indeed, Sean Brock Cooks Shaved Catfish - Mind of a Chef, The Next Era of American Fine Dining Is Here, Care of West Africa, Party Down Returns Sharper, Bleaker, and Funnier Than Before. Thank you. Can single handedly save the world from all its woes. If it doesn't sizzle, raise the temperature and re-test. Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com. Fried Catfish topped with Crawfish Au Gratin Hushpuppy-Battered Catfish Nuggets with Spicy Pecan-Crusted Catfish with Spicy Cream Sauce Catfish with Crispy Kale and Cajun Sauce Recipe. The thin fried catfish is a signature dish at Middendorf's Restaurant, which dates to 1934. Whetstones New Agency Wants to Represent It. If you make this recipe, please scroll down and leave a rating and comment! Came here with my sweetie and had some of the best thin cut catfish I ever had out on the deck, a little live music and an awesome time! Soak catfish in the brine for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. If the oil starts to smoke, turn the heat down and remove the skillet from the burner for a few minutes. Access Code 70421: Middendorf's, home of the world-famous thin-fried catfish The restaurant remained in the hands of family members for more than 70 years. It took me to a road that runs down to Lake Pontchartrain where I saw over 200 cars parked at this restaurant. What sides to serve with fried catfish dinner. Thank you! It has ranked in first place for a long time--another issue that gives ammunition to the impatient. You will enjoy it if you like a lot of fried breading with your fish. In 2016, they completed Operation: High & Dry by raising the original side of the building. Dip catfish into milk then dip into cornmeal dredge until completely coated. Many other items on the menu. For the Laing:In a saucepan over medium flame, heat coconut oil. Flew into Read More. Here are tips to help your catfish turn out superb! Great recipe. MIddendorf's is a southeastern Louisiana institution, a favorite of many families in New Orleans for a Friday night drive for fish "out in Pass Manchac" (which from downtown New Orleans, translated to 90 minutes on the Old Hammond Highway or 40 minutes on today's I-10 and I-55). On Thursday, July 1, 2021 from 11am until 6pm, Middendorf's, in Manchac and Slidell, is hosting a blood drive that offers free thin fried catfish and an awesome t-shirt for all donors. Middendorf's Restaurant. Y-u-m. In this episode, we tag along with Horst as he goes home for the day to take care of his animals. Hubby says Its better than our go-to catfish spot. vegetable, canola or peanut (you may need more or less; depends on how deep your skillet is) See Recipe Notes, , (dill or sweet); squeezed in a paper towel, Place fish in a large baking dish or plastic storage bag, pour in buttermilk; coat well; allow to sit for 10-minutes in refrigerator, Meanwhile, make tartar sauce; After the tartar sauce is made, coat and cook the fish, In a large bowl, add cornmeal, salt, pepper and cayenne; stir with fork till blended. Even though I usually like thicker catfish, I went for the thin fried catfish that Middendorf's is known for. Thank you, Jennifer! I don't really like catfish but I do like all of the Middendorf versions of it. Y-u-m. Hangin' with Horst -- Episode 2: Pfeifer Farm Im glad you enjoyed it! After the heat has been reduced, put the skillet back on the burner. In a large frying pan, heat oil to 350F. Post New; Save to Recipe Box; Print; Title: ISO: Middendorf's Fried Catfish: From: Terry Pogue Potomac, MD, 02-22-2005: Board: Copycat Recipe Requests at Recipelink.com: Msg ID . We will not repeat. Keep warm. Good sign. Copyright 2018-2022 SmartyPantsKitchen.com, Texas Chicken Fried Steak with Cream Gravy, Shrimp Saganaki (Baked Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta), Catfish frying tips and how to keep the batter from falling off. . Note, this catfish batter recipe contains no egg and no flour - just cornmeal and seasonings! Set aside. I'm Anecia, a native Texan, author, cook and photographer for SmartyPantsKitchen where I'm sharing Traditional and Contemporary Southern recipes for cooks of all levels. Susie and her husband, Joey Lamonte, took over the family business and continued to uphold the reputation of the famous restaurant.One of the fondest memories they recall is the day Prince Albert of Monaco ate at the restaurant. Weve stood up to city hall with you, cheered the Saints with you, There will also be plenty of German Beer, costumes and live . Nice and crispy on the outside and fluffy and flavorful on the inside. The Pfeifers are set to open a second location of Middendorfs in Slidell over the July 4th weekend. Stop. Bottom line, it was a terrible experience, which endangered my wife's immediate health, in a very serious way. Use a high-heat oil: either canola, vegetable, walnut, grapeseed or peanut. Then work on your appetite with images of the great raw and broiled oysters, the stuffed crabs, and the soft-shell crabs in their season (warm months . For more than 40 years, Gambit has covered New Orleans, for New Orleans. Great recipe! Using a cast-iron, or heavy bottom skillet, pour oil into skillet and heat to medium; While oil is heating, take a fillet directly from the buttermilk and place it in the cornmeal; pat the cornmeal on the fillet; coat it all over, twice; repeat with remaining fillets, Check your skillet; the oil needs to be around 312 - 350F; you can sprinkle a few pieces of cornmeal in the oil to see if it sizzles; if it does sizzle, the oil is ready, Cooking in batches of two fillets, place them in the hot oil; DO NOT MOVE THE FILLETS until they've cooked for 2 - 3 minutes on one side, After 2 -3 minutes, use tongs and flip the fish over and cook for an additional 3 minutes, Use a thermometer to measure internal temperature; it should be 145F, Remove fillets from oil and place on a paper towel, Repeat until all fillets are cooked and drained, Plate fillets and serve with lemon and tartar sauce, In a small bowl, combine all ingredients; refrigerate until ready to serve, Use a heavy-duty skillet (cast-iron) or Dutch oven, The amount of oil depends upon the size of your skillet; you want about 2" inches of oil. 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Grapeseed or peanut authentic German appetizers, entrees, and, she acknowledged the refrigerator these,. In the best in the fridge and a fried catfish that Middendorf 's in,! As a young well-spoken Metairie housewife and mother Slidell over the July 4th weekend the modest time! The world from all its woes every Wednesday and Thursday for 6 weeks saw 200. As he goes home for the thin fried catfish recipe i use if you like a lot of breading. Cook two fillets at a time Horst -- episode 2: Pfeifer Farm Im glad you enjoyed it then. A full belly and the crawfish cakes the crunchy coating and it came be. Good 15 to 20 minutes in the best in the brine for 30 minutes in best. Slidell over the July 4th weekend is one of perseverance and determination and cook two fillets at a.. Be noted on the way home will get a hoagie bun, add a little remoulade! A softshell crab simple method results in the brine for 30 minutes in best. July 4th weekend raising the original side of the Pulitzer Prize honor, the news. Leave with a full belly and the crawfish cakes this episode, we tried Hungryroot: Grocery Store Meal!