Fried Catfish fillets Recipe
Fried catfish is a popular Southern dish known for its crispy coating and tender fish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 4 catfish fillets (8 ounces each), skins and bones removed, rinsed and patted dry
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Peanut oil, for frying
- Remoulade Sauce, for dipping (recipe follows)
Remoulade Sauce:
- Ingredients (example): mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, hot sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper
Directions:
- Preheat a deep fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) or heat peanut oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet.
- In a large bowl, mix the yellow cornmeal, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Season the catfish fillets with salt and pepper.
- Dip each fillet into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Dredge the catfish fillets in the cornmeal and spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil, frying them for about 4 minutes or until crisp and golden brown.
- Once fried, transfer the catfish fillets to a paper towel-lined sheet tray to drain excess oil.
- Season the fried catfish fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the fried catfish hot with Remoulade Sauce for dipping.
Additional Information:
- Cooking oil: Peanut oil is commonly used for frying catfish due to its high smoke point and mild flavor. However, you can use other suitable frying oils as well.
- Remoulade Sauce: Prepare the Remoulade Sauce separately using ingredients like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, hot sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the quantities and ingredients based on your preferred recipe.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the fried catfish with sides like coleslaw, hush puppies, or French fries for a classic Southern meal.
Note: Ensure the catfish fillets are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful fried catfish with the delicious Remoulade Sauce!
