Deep Fried Catfish Food Network
Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned, this Deep-Fried Catfish recipe from Food Network is a Southern classic that embodies comfort food at its finest. Soaked in a tangy buttermilk and hot sauce marinade, the catfish fillets are infused with bold, zesty flavors before being dredged in a spiced cornmeal and flour coating for that signature crunch. Fried to perfection in hot oil, each fillet achieves a beautifully crisp crust while remaining tender and flaky inside. The secret lies in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder blend, which elevates every bite with a savory kick. Ready in under 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Serve your perfectly fried catfish hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon and your favorite dipping sauce for a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the South!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Catfish fillets
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Hot sauce
- 1 cup Cornmeal
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 4 cups Vegetable oil
- 4 pieces Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the catfish fillets in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to marinate.
In another large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, pressing slightly to ensure an even coating.
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Carefully slide one or two fillets into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fillets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat with the remaining fillets, ensuring the oil returns to 350°F (175°C) between batches.
Serve the deep-fried catfish hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish. Optionally, pair with tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2307 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 217.2 g | 278% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.1 g | 166% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 134.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 73 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 811 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.3 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.9 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.8 g | ||
| Protein | 31.2 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.6 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 217 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 883 mg | 19% | |
*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.
