Step 1: Prepare the Dirty Rice
- Cook the rice: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Cook the sausage and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork or sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and season: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the sausage and vegetables. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and heated through. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until just combined.
- Scoop the biscuits: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
- Make the butter topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder and chopped parsley. Brush the butter mixture over the hot biscuits.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans
- Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the green beans: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the blanched green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until heated through. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest, if using.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan-Seared Catfish
- Season the catfish: Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot.
- Cook the catfish: Add the catfish fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Add the butter in the last minute of cooking, basting the fish with the melted butter.
- Serve: Serve the catfish fillets with lemon wedges on the side.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the meal: Serve the pan-seared catfish with dirty rice, Cheddar Bay biscuits, and green beans on the side.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this delicious and comforting Southern-inspired meal with your loved ones!
Tips for Perfect Southern-Inspired Feast
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh catfish, green beans, and high-quality sausage or ground pork will make a significant difference in flavor.
- Season well: Generously season all components of the meal to enhance the flavors.
- Don’t overcook: Be careful not to overcook the catfish and green beans to maintain their tender texture.
- Customize: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
This Southern-inspired meal of pan-seared catfish, dirty rice, Cheddar Bay biscuits, and green beans is a delicious and comforting dinner perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful feast with your loved ones!