Catfish Cakes

1-1/2 pounds catfish fillets
2 eggs, beaten
1 large potato, peeled, cooked and mashed
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 to 3 drops hot pepper sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
2 cups finely crushed butter-flavored crackers
Vegetable oil
Tartar sauce, optional

Poach or bake catfish fillets. Drain and refrigerate. Flake cooled fish into a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, potato, onion, parsley, hot pepper sauce, garlic, salt, pepper and basil; mix well.

Shape into eight patties; coat with cracker crumbs. Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet. Cook patties, a few at a time, until browned on both sides and heated through. Serve with tartar sauce if desired. Makes 8 servings.