Instead of the traditional deep-fried style, Gorji revamps the once-Southern staple into a “new Mediterranean” heart-healthy offering. The result is a taste treat of hot and cold temperatures and textures. “It is pan-seared and bread-crumbed, no corn meal,” says Gorji. “I serve it hot on a cold artichoke salad with a grilled chilled avocado.”
The surprises keep coming as he pairs it with French wine, normally the domain of pricier seafood and choice beef, pork and poultry. Many of his customers say they didn’t know they even liked catfish until they tried it prepared this way. “The wine pairing balances the entire meal,” says one repeat catfish diner.
The catfish and wine pairing has proven so popular with customers that Gorji has continued the unconventional prix fixe through August. After that, the pan-seared catfish will remain on the menu as one of his signature dishes, available year-round.
Tasty news travels fast. Cook editor Anne Dolce of the national food blog, The Daily Meal, recently wrote that Gorji’s message is “loud and clear that the quirky, unusual fish doesn’t have to be all about grease and French fries, and that it is, believe it or not, quite likeable.”
According to the The Catfish Institute: “U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is a lean fish and an excellent source of protein. It is low in saturated (bad) fat and is a moderate source of polyunsaturated (good) fat and omega-3 fatty acids.” Another plus is that, as an American farm-raised offering, it is a sustainable product. The recipe is ideal for those looking to get their fix of one of their favorites but cut out some of the unhealthy calories with this pan seared version. And it’s user-friendly: “It is surprisingly simple and easy to prepare at home,” says Gorji.
Want to make this dish at home? You can find the recipe here.
Catfish Prix Fixe Menu
First Course
Pomodoro and Buffalo Mozzarella Pizza
Louis Tete Beaujolais Villages 2010 (France)
Second Course
Pan-Seared Catfish with Grilled Chilled Avocado and Artichoke Salad
Louis Chevallier Macon Villages Chardonnay 2010 (France)
Third Course
Blue Bell Ice Cream and Peaches (while peaches are still in season)
Orange Moscato 2010 (Texas High Plains-Newsom Vineyard)
Canary By Gorji is located at 5100 Belt Line Road Road, Suite 402, Dallas, Texas 75254. Canary By Gorji offers a boutique wine selection and is open for dinner Tuesday–Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m. and Friday – Saturday, 5-10:30 p.m. For more information about the restaurant call 972-503-7080 or visit http://www.canarybygorji.com.
Chef Gorji’s own product line Gorji Gourmet Foods®, which includes Pomodoro and Puttanesca Sauce, Dipping Oil & Marinade Primer, Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Spicy Remoulade are available for purchase at Canary by Gorji Mediterranean Steak & Seafood restaurant, DFW Whole Food Markets®, and the following gourmet stores in the Dallas area: Jimmy’s Food Store, Bolsa Mercado, Celebration Market, and Sara’s Market & Bakery. The products are also available online at Artizone.com and http://www.gorjigourmetfoods.com