Southern Fried Catfish

Posted by Fitzroy Neville October 21, 2023
Southern Fried Catfish

Background and History:

Southern Fried Catfish is a beloved dish in the southern United States. It’s a culinary tradition that has its roots in the South’s rich history of freshwater fishing. Catfish are abundant in southern rivers and lakes, making them a readily available and affordable source of protein for generations. The dish typically involves dredging catfish fillets in a seasoned cornmeal coating and frying them until golden brown. It’s known for its crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior.

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Serves: 4

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

  • In a shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This is your seasoned coating mix.
  • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
  • While the oil is heating, pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels.
  • Dredge each catfish fillet in the seasoned coating mix, ensuring an even and generous coating. Gently press the coating onto the fish to help it adhere.
  • Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried catfish from the hot oil and drain them on paper towels.
  • Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.

Nutrition Facts: (Per serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 26g

Notes:

  • Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
  • You can use other fish varieties like tilapia or trout for a similar preparation.
  • Serve with traditional sides like coleslaw, hushpuppies, and tartar sauce.

Allergy Warning:

  • If you have allergies to fish, wheat, or any of the listed spices, please avoid this dish or use suitable substitutions.
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Fitzroy Neville, the culinary maestro behind this site, boasts the impressive title of Cooking Prodigy. With a natural flair for the culinary arts, Fitzroy brings innovation and expertise to the world of pet cuisine. His site is a haven for pet owners seeking imaginative and nutritious recipes to delight their furry companions. Fitzroy's passion for transforming pet meals into culinary experiences is evident in the creative and delectable content he shares. For those looking to elevate their pets' dining experience, Fitzroy Neville's site is a testament to the artistry and skill of a true cooking prodigy dedicated to pampering our four-legged friends.