How to Make the Perfect Southern Fried Catfish
American · Easy · 22 min · 4 servings
This crispy southern fried catfish is a kid friendly fish recipe that even picky eaters enjoy. The crunchy cornmeal coating and mild fish flavor make it a fantastic family dinner everyone will request.
Why this recipe works
This Southern Fried Catfish recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 22 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 32g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 fillets catfish fillets
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Soak the Fish
Place catfish fillets in a shallow dish and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
Mix cornmeal garlic powder paprika salt and pepper together in a shallow dish. This seasoned coating creates the signature crispy crust.
Step 3: Coat the Fish
Remove fillets from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Press each fillet firmly into the cornmeal mixture coating all sides evenly.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a large skillet to 375 degrees. Fry coated fillets for 5 to 6 minutes per side until deep golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and serve with lemon.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- catfish → tilapia or cod for a milder flavor kids love
- buttermilk → regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Frying in oil that is not hot enough making the fish greasy instead of crispy
- Overcrowding the pan which drops oil temperature and ruins the crust
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 32g protein, 24g carbs, 18g fat, 2g fiber.
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