Classic Fried Catfish Recipe
🕒 Cook Time: 6 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 21 minutes
🥘 Servings: 6
Description:
Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Fried Catfish, a recipe that embodies the essence of Southern comfort cuisine. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this dish promises a flavorful journey with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, it’s a beloved favorite that will leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 6 catfish fillets
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sprinkling)
- Oil (for frying)
Instructions:
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large shallow dish, combine the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
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Prepare Catfish: Sprinkle the catfish fillets with 1/4 teaspoon of salt evenly on both sides. Then, dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the seasoned flour mixture.
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Heat Oil: Pour oil into a deep cast-iron skillet, filling it to a depth of about 1 1/2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature.
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Fry Catfish: Once the oil is heated to the desired temperature, carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the skillet, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the fillets for 5 to 6 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color and are cooked through. Ensure you maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process for optimal results.
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Drain and Serve: As each batch of catfish fillets finishes frying, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps to keep the fillets crispy and prevents them from becoming greasy. Serve the Classic Fried Catfish hot and crispy, alongside your favorite sides like coleslaw, hushpuppies, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210.4
- Fat Content: 7.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 62.3mg
- Sodium Content: 988.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16g
- Fiber Content: 1.4g
- Sugar Content: 0.1g
- Protein Content: 19.1g
Recipe Notes:
- Freshness Tip: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh catfish fillets that have been properly cleaned and trimmed.
- Oil Selection: Choose a high-quality oil with a high smoke point for frying, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil.
- Cooking Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy catfish. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Classic Fried Catfish pairs well with a variety of sides, including tartar sauce, lemon wedges, hot sauce, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Indulge in the rich flavors and crispy texture of this Classic Fried Catfish recipe, a Southern favorite that never fails to impress! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you longing for seconds. Enjoy the hearty goodness of homemade fried catfish with family and friends, and savor every flavorful moment!
