Southern fried catfish is a beloved dish that has deep roots in Southern cuisine. With its crispy golden crust and tender, flaky meat, it’s a staple at many family gatherings and fish fries. Originating in the Southern United States, this dish has become synonymous with soul food and comfort cooking. The secret to its delightful texture and flavor lies in the perfect blend of seasonings and the frying technique. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple fried catfish recipe will guide you through creating a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
For this southern fried catfish recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Place the fillets in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes. This will help to tenderize the fish and add a tangy flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of seasonings.
Step 3: Coat the Fish
- Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thorough and even coating. Shake off any excess.
Step 4: Fry the Catfish
- In a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small pinch of the cornmeal mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
- Carefully place the coated catfish fillets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Cook the fillets for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The fish should be flaky and opaque in the center.
- Remove the fried catfish from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Tips and Variations
- Pan Fried Catfish: If you prefer a lighter version, you can pan-fry the catfish in less oil. Simply reduce the oil to about 2 tablespoons and cook over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.
- Louisiana Fried Catfish Recipe: For a true Louisiana twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture for an extra kick.
- Soul Food Fried Catfish Recipe: Serve your catfish with classic soul food sides like collard greens, cornbread, and hush puppies for an authentic meal.
- Best Fried Catfish Recipe: To ensure your catfish is the best it can be, use fresh fillets and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the coating to become soggy.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Southern fried catfish is a dish that brings people together with its comforting flavors and crispy texture. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a family meal or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try pairing it with a refreshing salad or some tangy coleslaw for a balanced meal. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with us by leaving a comment below. We’d love to hear how your catfish turned out! Share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox.