Cheesy Walleye Nuggets Crispy and Flavorful Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh walleye fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• to taste Salt and black pepper
• for frying Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Rinse the walleye fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into bite-sized nuggets and season with salt and black pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
3. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour in one, the beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in the third.
4. Dip each walleye piece first into the flour, coating it lightly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, roll the piece in the panko breadcrumb and cheese mixture to coat it well. Repeat this for all the pieces.
5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
6. Carefully add the breaded walleye nuggets to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.