Southern Fried Catfish

Southern Fried Catfish
Ingredients:

• 4–6 catfish fillets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Rinse catfish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add catfish fillets and let them soak for 20–30 minutes.
4. In another bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
5. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
6. Remove fish from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
7. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
8. Carefully place fillets into hot oil in batches.
9. Fry for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack.
11. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings