Fried Catfish: A Southern Delight for Family Dinner

Fried Catfish: A Southern Delight for Family Dinner
A Little Story
Fried catfish is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful fish. Catfish has been a staple in the American South for centuries, often served at family gatherings, picnics, and fish fries. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal, bringing a taste of the South to your dinner table. With its simple preparation and delicious results, fried catfish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Fried Catfish
4 catfish fillets
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Vegetable oil, for frying
Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Tartar Sauce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon capers, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
Coleslaw
Hushpuppies or cornbread
Pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Fried Catfish
Marinate the Catfish: Place the catfish fillets in a large bowl or dish and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach about 1/2 inch depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), or until a small piece of bread sizzles when dropped in.
Coat the Catfish: Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Shake off any excess coating.
Fry the Catfish: Carefully place the coated catfish fillets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Preparing the Tartar Sauce
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Serving the Fried Catfish
Plate the Dish: Serve the fried catfish fillets on a platter with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish. Add sides of coleslaw, hushpuppies or cornbread, and pickles for a complete meal.
Enjoy: Let everyone assemble their own plates with their preferred sides and garnishes.
Best Drink Pairings
Pair your fried catfish with a cold beer like a pilsner or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try a classic sweet tea or a refreshing lemonade.
Serving Tips
Make it a Meal: Add a side of baked beans or a simple green salad to complement the catfish.
Storage: Leftover catfish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its crispiness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sodium: 750mg
Final Thoughts
Fried catfish is a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for a family dinner. It's easy to prepare and brings a taste of Southern hospitality to your table. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful catfish with your favorite sides. Happy cooking!