Description
Crispy fried catfish fillets soaked in buttermilk and coated in a flavorful cornmeal mixture, fried to golden perfection. Serve with lemon wedges and hot sauce for a delicious Southern meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound total)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk and add the catfish fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Prepare a clean workspace with the bowl of dry ingredients next to the dish of buttermilk and a plate for the coated fillets.
- Remove each fillet from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently for an even coating. Shake off excess and place on the plate. Repeat for all fillets.
- Allow the coated fillets to rest for about 10 minutes to help the coating adhere better.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Use a slotted spatula to remove the catfish from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Arrange the fried catfish on a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve with hot sauce if desired.
- Serve with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or fried green tomatoes.
- Dig in and savor your homemade fried catfish!
Notes
- Choose fresh catfish fillets for the best flavor.
- Adjust spices in the coating to suit your taste; add more cayenne for extra heat.
- Maintain the oil temperature for optimal frying results.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes