Created by Kchurchill5 on July 2, 2012
Step 1: Cucumber Sauce ... Make the sauce ahead of time, at least 30 minutes before serving. For the cucumber, I prefer a seedless cucumber, but a regular cucumber will work just fine. Peel, and lightly seed, by cutting the cucumber in half lengthwise; take a spoon and run it down the center removing most of the seeds. Then dice the cucumber fairly fine. Set on a plate lined with a paper towel and lightly salt. Let it rest 10 minutes. This will draw out some of the moisture, so your sauce will not be runny.
Step 2: Add the cucumber to the yogurt with the dill, horseradish, and lemon juice. If you like the sauce a bit 'tart,' you can add a bit more lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Catfish ... I prefer to steam or to poach the catfish for this recipe. You want a very soft moist fish. My method - add about 1/2' water to a large saute pan and bring to medium heat. Add the catfish and put the lid on. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer about 10 minutes until the fish is firm and flaky. I don't find it necessary to season the water at this point. Remove the fish to a plate and let it cool before making the cakes.
Step 4: Cakes ... Add the celery, onion, cracker crumbs, mayonnaise, parsley and chives, old bay seasoning, and a pinch of both salt and pepper. Mix well, then add in the catfish, mixing well, but trying not to over mix so the catfish doesn't break up too much. Check again to see if additional seasoning is needed.
Step 5: Form the cakes into small patties and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brushed with olive oil. Brush a little olive oil over each cake, cover and refrigerate at least 15 minutes to firm up. The olive oil will help to brown the patties.
Step 6: Bake ... Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Cooking times can vary depending on how thick and how big you make the cakes.
Step 7: Serve ... Top the cakes with the cucumber sauce and a lemon wedge and ENJOY!