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Crispy Fried Catfish Recipe: A Flavorful Southern Delight First Image

Fried Catfish


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Deliciously crispy fried catfish fillets, marinated in buttermilk and coated in a flavorful cornmeal mixture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb catfish fillets
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup coarse cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Rinse catfish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a shallow dish, marinate the fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne.
  4. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture until evenly coated.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
  6. Fry fillets for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F).
  7. Drain excess oil on paper towels before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure fillets are patted dry well to avoid excess moisture.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg