Caramel Coated Catfish

Mix 1/3 cup of water with the fish sauce in a small bowl and set aside.

Combine shallots, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a separate bowl and set aside.

Heat 1/3 cup of water and 1/3 cup of sugar in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar turns deep golden brown.

Gently stir in the fish sauce mixture and bring to a boil.

Stir in the shallot mixture and cook until shallots soften, then add the catfish.

Cover and cook the catfish until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 5 minutes on each side.

Place catfish on a large plate, cover, and set aside.

Increase heat to high and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of sugar.

Stir in the lime juice and any sauce that has collected on the plate.

Bring to a boil and simmer until the sauce has reduced.

Pour sauce over the catfish and garnish with green onions and cilantro.