Mild Fried Crawfish with Apple Slaw | Cajun 911 Cuisine
This mild-spiced version of Cajun 911’s fried crawfish is perfect for anyone who prefers a gentler Cajun flavor. The lightly seasoned cornmeal crust allows the natural sweetness of the crawfish to shine, while the crisp apple slaw adds brightness and balance. It’s classic Louisiana comfort with a fresh, family-friendly finish.
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE FRIED CRAWFISH
1 lb crawfish tails, drained and patted dry
1 cup buttermilk
2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
1 tsp hot sauce, reduced
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika, optional
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Oil for frying
FOR THE APPLE SLAW
1 green apple, thinly sliced or cut into matchsticks
1 red apple, thinly sliced or cut into matchsticks
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup shredded carrot
2 Tbsp green onion, sliced
1 Tbsp parsley, chopped
APPLE SLAW DRESSING
2 Tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp olive oil
1–2 tsp honey or cane syrup
1/4 tsp Cajun seasoning
Pinch salt and black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the Crawfish
Combine buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl. Add crawfish tails and let soak for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Apple Slaw
In a bowl, combine apples, cabbage, carrot, green onion, and parsley. Whisk the dressing ingredients together and toss with the slaw. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Mix the Dry Coating
In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika if using, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bread the Crawfish
Remove crawfish from the buttermilk and coat evenly in the dry mixture. Shake off any excess.
5. Fry
Heat oil to 350°F. Fry crawfish for 1–2 minutes until crisp and golden. Drain and lightly season with salt.
6. Serve
Plate the apple slaw and top with hot fried crawfish. Finish with lemon wedges or a light drizzle of honey-Cajun sauce if desired.
SERVING IDEAS
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Serve in po’boys with apple slaw
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Use as a taco filling with comeback sauce
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Add to seafood platters or family-style spreads
NOTES
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This mild version is ideal for kids or spice-sensitive guests
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Increase Cajun seasoning or add cayenne for more heat
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Crawfish cook quickly, so avoid over-frying
RECIPE PAIRINGS AND HELPFUL LINKS
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Pair with seafood sides
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Serve alongside Cajun sauces and dips
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