Crispy Southwest-Style Fried Catfish

Texas Fried Catfish is a quintessential dish that captures the heart and soul of Southern cuisine, particularly from the Southwestern U.S. region. This recipe, perfect for those seeking a quick and flavorful meal, embodies simplicity and taste in every crispy bite.

Recipe Overview

• Name: Texas Fried Catfish
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Recipe Category: Catfish
• Keywords: Southwestern U.S., < 30 Mins, Stove Top
• Servings: 6
• Rating: 5 (from 1 review)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 175.2
• Total Fat: 3.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.8g
• Cholesterol: 71.2mg
• Sodium: 815.3mg
• Carbohydrates: 31.7g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 0.4g
• Protein: 5.6g

Ingredients

• 6 catfish fillets
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups cornmeal

Instructions

1. Thaw frozen fish if using frozen catfish fillets. Ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.

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2. Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, sprinkle both sides of the catfish fillets with salt and pepper. This step ensures each piece is seasoned evenly.

3. Prepare the egg wash: In another bowl, beat the eggs slightly and then blend in the milk. This mixture will help the cornmeal adhere to the fish during frying.

4. Coat the catfish: Dip each seasoned fillet into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Afterward, roll the fillet in the cornmeal, covering it thoroughly. Repeat for all fillets.

5. Frying process: In a heavy fry pan, heat about 1/8 inch of melted fat (such as vegetable oil or lard) until it’s hot but not smoking. Place the coated catfish fillets in the pan.

6. Fry the catfish: Fry the catfish at a moderate heat until one side is golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

7. Flip and brown: Carefully turn the catfish fillets using tongs or a spatula to brown the other side. Ensure both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.

8. Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the catfish from the pan and drain on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.

9. Serve hot: Transfer the fried catfish fillets to a hot platter. They can be served plain as they are delicious on their own, or with a sauce of your choice for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Fried Catfish pairs wonderfully with traditional Southern sides like coleslaw, hush puppies, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, serve it atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s also great with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrus flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Temperature control: Maintain a moderate heat while frying to ensure the catfish cooks through without burning the cornmeal coating.
• Freshness matters: Use fresh catfish fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Oil choice: Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or peanut oil, to achieve a crispy exterior without imparting unwanted flavors.

Conclusion

Texas Fried Catfish is a dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Southwestern United States. With its simple preparation and delightful crunch, it’s sure to become a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the flavors of the South with this easy-to-make, satisfying catfish recipe from Love with Recipes!