Southern Fried Catfish

Here’s a delicious Southern Fried Catfish recipe for crispy, golden, and flavorful fish!

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Catfish:
   • In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk over the catfish fillets. Make sure the fillets are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. This helps tenderize the fish and enhance the flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • In another shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil hot enough for frying (around 350°F or 175°C).
4. Coat the Catfish:
   • Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Fry the Catfish:
   • Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil. Fry each fillet for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. The fish should flake easily with a fork once cooked.
6. Drain and Serve:
   • Once cooked, transfer the fried catfish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve:
   • Serve your Southern Fried Catfish hot with lemon wedges, coleslaw, hush puppies, or your favorite sides.

Enjoy your Southern-style fried catfish!