Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets (skin removed)
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Soak the Fish
Place catfish fillets in buttermilk and soak for 30 minutes to tenderize and remove any fishy taste. - Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. - Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep skillet or cast-iron pan to 350°F (175°C). - Coat the Fillets
Remove catfish from buttermilk, let excess drip off, then coat evenly in the cornmeal mixture. - Fry
Fry fillets in hot oil for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. - Drain & Serve
Place fried catfish on paper towels or a wire rack. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Hush puppies
- Coleslaw
- French fries
- Tartar sauce or hot sauce
- Lemon wedges 🍋
