Southern fried catfish is a classic dish that has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion and is loved by both young and old alike. One of the key ingredients that make this dish stand out is the use of cornmeal in the breading. Cornmeal adds a unique texture and flavor to the catfish, making it a must-try for any seafood lover. In this article, we will take a closer look at the process of creating this mouth-watering southern fried catfish recipe using cornmeal.
Let's start with the classic recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. To make this dish, you'll need catfish fillets, cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, and vegetable oil for frying. The catfish fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and Cajun seasoning, then fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges for a true taste of the South.
2of 19
Spicy Southern Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Self Rising Flour, Yellow Cornmeal, Hot Sauce
If you're a fan of bold and spicy flavors, then this recipe is for you. This version of Southern Fried Catfish adds a kick of heat with the addition of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to the cornmeal mixture. The result is a fiery and delicious catfish that will leave your taste buds tingling.
This recipe takes the classic Southern Fried Catfish to the next level by using a combination of cornmeal and panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating. The fillets are first dredged in a mixture of flour, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder, then dipped in an egg wash before being coated in the cornmeal and panko mixture. The result is a perfectly crispy and flavorful catfish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
For a twist on the traditional recipe, try using catfish nuggets instead of fillets. The smaller pieces of fish are coated in the same seasoned cornmeal mixture and fried until golden and crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and tasty appetizer.
5of 19
Fried Catfish…Yummy Yums
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Milk, Hot Sauce, Cornmeal, Flour, Salt, Black
This recipe adds a touch of sweetness to the classic Southern Fried Catfish. The catfish fillets are coated in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, brown sugar, and Cajun seasoning, giving them a slightly sweet and spicy flavor. Serve with a side of coleslaw for a perfect balance of flavors.
If you're looking for a healthier version of Southern Fried Catfish, try baking it instead of frying. This recipe uses the same cornmeal and flour coating, but instead of frying, the catfish is baked in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious and delicious meal.
7of 19
Cajun Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Buttermilk, Vegetable Oil, Cornmeal
This recipe takes inspiration from Cajun cuisine and adds a touch of heat and flavor to the classic Southern Fried Catfish. The catfish fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and Cajun seasoning, then fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of dirty rice for a true Cajun experience.
8of 19
Southern-style Catfish With Dirty Rice
Main Ingredients: Cornmeal, Salt, Red Bell Pepper, Sliced, Catfish
Speaking of dirty rice, this recipe combines it with the classic Southern Fried Catfish for a truly mouthwatering dish. The catfish fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal and Cajun seasoning, then fried until crispy and served on a bed of dirty rice. The result is a hearty and flavorful meal that will satisfy even the biggest appetites.
9of 19
Restaurant-Quality Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Vegetable, Cornmeal, Buttermilk, Cayenne
If you want to impress your dinner guests with a fancy and delicious version of Southern Fried Catfish, this recipe is for you. It uses a combination of cornmeal, flour, and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy coating, and the fillets are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. Serve with a side of homemade tartar sauce for a gourmet dining experience.
10of 19
Southern-Style Oven-Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, Cornmeal, Creole
For a healthier and easier version of Southern Fried Catfish, try this oven-fried method. The catfish fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal and flour, then baked in the oven until crispy and golden brown. The result is a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, without sacrificing any flavor.
This recipe takes a different approach to Southern Fried Catfish by using a variety of white fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia. The fillets are coated in the traditional cornmeal mixture and fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of fries and coleslaw for a classic fish and chips experience.
12of 19
Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Milk, Salt, Cornmeal, Flour, Garlic
For a simple and delicious version of Southern Fried Catfish, try this recipe. The fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal and flour and fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of hush puppies for a true Southern feast.
13of 19
Classic Southern-Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish Fillets, Buttermilk, Oil, Cornmeal, All Purpose
This recipe stays true to the classic Southern Fried Catfish recipe, with a few added ingredients to enhance the flavor. The fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and a blend of spices and herbs, then fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
14of 19
B.B. King's Blues Club Southern-Style Catfish
Main Ingredients: Peanut Oil, Catfish Fillets, Egg, Milk, Cornmeal, All
This recipe takes inspiration from the famous blues musician and adds a touch of soul to the classic Southern Fried Catfish. The fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and a blend of spices, then fried until crispy and served with a side of collard greens for a true taste of the South.
For a unique twist on the traditional recipe, try using buttermilk instead of egg for the dredging process. The acidity of the buttermilk helps to tenderize the catfish and adds a subtle tanginess to the dish. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting and delicious meal.
16of 19
Deep Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Catfish, Cornmeal, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Lemon
If you're a fan of deep-fried foods, then this recipe is for you. The catfish fillets are coated in the traditional cornmeal mixture and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Serve with a side of fries and tartar sauce for a classic Southern meal.
17of 19
Grace Meat & Three's Fried Catfish Nuggets
Main Ingredients: Busch Beer, Garlic Powder, Freshly Ground Black Pepper
For a fun and tasty twist on the classic Southern Fried Catfish, try using bite-sized nuggets instead of fillets. The nuggets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and a blend of spices, then fried until crispy and served with a side of mac and cheese for a delicious and comforting meal.
18of 19
Southern-Style Corn Meal Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil, Catfish Fillets, White Lily R
This recipe adds a touch of cornmeal to the traditional coating for an extra crispy and flavorful catfish. The fillets are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and Cajun seasoning, then fried until golden and served with a side of collard greens for a true taste of the South.
19of 19
Classic Fried Catfish
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Hot Sauce, Catfish Fillets, Canola Oil
For a no-fuss and delicious version of Southern Fried Catfish, try this recipe. The fillets are coated in a simple mixture of cornmeal and flour, then fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
The Importance of Cornmeal in Southern Fried Catfish
When it comes to southern fried catfish, cornmeal is an essential ingredient that cannot be substituted with other types of breading. The use of cornmeal in this recipe dates back to the early days of Southern cooking, where it was easily accessible and inexpensive for families to use. The coarse texture of cornmeal adds a satisfying crunch to the catfish, while also helping to seal in the moisture and flavors of the fish. This creates a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
Choosing the Right Cornmeal for Your Catfish
When it comes to choosing the right cornmeal for your southern fried catfish, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to use a stone-ground cornmeal for the best results. This type of cornmeal is coarsely ground and adds a distinct texture to the breading. Also, opt for yellow cornmeal over white for a more flavorful and vibrant breading. Lastly, consider adding a touch of seasoning to your cornmeal mix to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
How to Prepare Your Catfish for Frying
Before you start breading your catfish, it is essential to properly prepare it for frying. Begin by patting the catfish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the breading stick to the fish better. Then, season the fillets with your desired spices and herbs, such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Lastly, dredge the fillets in a mixture of cornmeal and flour before frying in hot oil.
Keywords: southern fried catfish, cornmeal, breading, texture, flavor, stone-ground, yellow cornmeal, seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, frying.
