Southern Fried Catfish is a soul food staple that is delicious and easy to make. The key to a the best tasting Southern Catfish is using fresh ingredients and choosing the right seasonings. Fried Catfish goes well with just about anything especially classic soul food side dishes such as mac and cheese, potato salad, candied yams and collard greens. It can be enjoyed all year long.
How to Make Southern Fried Catfish
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Step 1: Ingredients
Ingredients for Catfish Recipe:
Catfish, Cornmeal, All-Purpose Flour, 2 Eggs, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper and Canola Oil.
Step 2: Combine the Seasonings
In a small bowl combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Season the Fish and Prepare the Batter
Generously season the fish with the mixture.
In another bowl whisk together the cornmeal, flour and the remainder of the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Batter and Fry Your Catfish
Lightly beat your egg. Dredge the fish in the egg wash then the meal mixture. Using a cast iron skillet, preheat your oil to 350 degrees.
Fry the fish for 7 to 8 minutes. Remove the fish from the pan and place on paper towels to remove the excess oil.
Here are some tips for making the best Southern fried catfish:
- Use fresh fillets. Frozen fillets can be used, but they will not be as moist or flavorful.
- It’s all in the seasoning. Make sure to use seasoning that are flavorful and go well with fish. You can never go wrong with these: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper and salt.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. When frying your fish, it is important to not overcrowd the pan. This will prevent the catfish from cooking evenly and will also make the oil splatter.
- Fry the fish until golden brown and cooked through. The fish is done cooking when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Drain the fish on paper towels. This will help to remove any excess oil and will keep the fish crispy.