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Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4
Ingredients
Dry Coating
1½ cups fine yellow cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
2½ to 3 tsp seasoned salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp lemon pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Wet Mix
2 large eggs
2 tsp hot sauce (Louisiana-style works great)
Fish
1 lb catfish fillets, patted dry
(cut into smaller pieces if you prefer finger-style)
Instructions
1. Prep Your Fish
Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels. This step is key for a crispy finish.
2. Set Up Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together eggs and hot sauce.
In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, and seasonings.
3. Dredge and Coat
Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornmeal blend.
Press lightly to make sure it sticks.
4. Fry It Up
Heat oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron is best) to 350°F.
Fry catfish 2–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
5. Serve Hot
Sprinkle with a little extra lemon pepper or hot sauce and serve with hushpuppies, slaw, or fries.
Serve it up hot, and don’t forget the hot sauce!
