Experience the bold flavors of the South with this classic Catfish Delta recipe, a tantalizing combination of crispy, golden-fried catfish and a tangy homemade Delta sauce. Featuring tender catfish fillets marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce, then coated in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture with Cajun spices, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Paired with a zesty sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and pickle relish, it's a flavor-packed meal thatβs ready in under 40 minutes. Whether served with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or classic Southern sides, Catfish Delta is an irresistible crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend comfort food indulgence.
In a large shallow dish, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the catfish fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
While the catfish marinates, prepare the Delta sauce by mixing the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
In another shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a breading mixture.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 350Β°F (175Β°C) for frying.
Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
Carefully place the breaded fillets into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the fried catfish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve the crispy catfish fillets hot, topped with the prepared Delta sauce. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite Southern sides for a complete meal.
Calories |
7168 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 622.9 g | 799% | |
| Saturated Fat | 84.5 g | 422% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 269.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 542 mg | 181% | |
| Sodium | 8541 mg | 371% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 328.1 g | 119% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.0 g | 82% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.8 g | ||
| Protein | 109.7 g | 219% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.2 mcg | 16% | |
| Calcium | 364 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 13.7 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 2084 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.