Crispy Southern Fried Catfish
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (or any firm white fish)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse fish fillets and pat dry.
- Soak them in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (this removes any fishy taste and makes them tender).
- Seasoned Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Fish:
- Remove fish from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Fry:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 175°C (350°F).
- Fry fish for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or hot sauce.
- Great with coleslaw, fries, or hushpuppies.