Southern Crispy Catfish (Printable Version)
Golden fried catfish with a crispy cornmeal crust and a flavorful spice blend, perfect for a comforting meal.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Coating
01 -
1 1/2 cups cornmeal
02 -
1 tablespoon granulated garlic
03 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
04 -
1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
05 -
1 teaspoon white or black pepper
06 -
2 teaspoons salt, adjust to taste
→ Fish and Soaking Liquid
07 -
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
08 -
4 catfish fillets, 6 ounces each
→ Spicy Tartar Sauce
09 -
1 cup mayonnaise
10 -
1 tablespoon finely diced onion
11 -
1/2 to 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
12 -
3 tablespoons hot pepper relish
13 -
1 tablespoon granulated garlic
14 -
Dash of hot sauce
15 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375°F.
02 -
Combine cornmeal, granulated garlic, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and white or black pepper in a bowl.
03 -
Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl for dipping.
04 -
Cut catfish fillets into manageable portions if needed.
05 -
Dip each fillet in buttermilk, then dredge thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture.
06 -
Fry coated fillets in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
07 -
Place fried catfish on a wire rack to drain excess oil and serve immediately with spicy tartar sauce.
08 -
Combine mayonnaise, diced onion, prepared mustard, hot pepper relish, granulated garlic, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix well and refrigerate until serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Adjust salt and cayenne pepper according to desired spice level.