buttermilk fried catfish recipe

The Best buttermilk fried catfish recipe

I’ve always been a fan of Southern-style cooking, and one of my favorite dishes is buttermilk fried catfish. It’s a staple in many parts of the United States, particularly in the rural areas where catfish are abundant. The dish is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The key to this recipe is the buttermilk marinade, which tenderizes the catfish and gives it a rich, creamy flavor. My family loves this dish so much that we often serve it at our weekly dinner gatherings. The kids can’t get enough of the crispy exterior and flaky interior, and my husband appreciates how healthy it is – after all, catfish is a lean protein source that’s low in calories and fat.

I like that this recipe is also incredibly versatile, as you can serve it with a variety of sides, from hushpuppies to coleslaw. We often enjoy it with a side of baked beans or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Overall, this buttermilk fried catfish recipe is a winner in our household, and I’m confident it will be in yours too.

I’ve tried many different variations over the years, but this one remains my go-to recipe because of its simplicity and flavor. One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to scale up or down depending on your needs – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something quick for yourself, this recipe adapts beautifully. In addition to its taste and convenience, I appreciate how healthy this recipe is – the buttermilk marinade helps to break down the proteins in the fish, making it easier to digest.

This is especially important for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. As someone who values home cooking and traditional recipes, I appreciate how authentic this dish tastes – it’s a true representation of Southern cuisine at its finest.

Buttermilk Fried Catfish

4.8 from 638 votes

Crispy, golden catfish fillets marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust. This Southern classic is fried to perfection for a crunchy exterior and tender, flaky fish inside.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Catfish

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse catfish fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
2In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce if using.
3Add fillets, turning to coat, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne if using.
5Mix well with a fork.
6Remove fillets from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
7Set on a plate.
8Pour oil into a large skillet to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers and a pinch of cornmeal sizzles immediately, about 350°F.
9Carefully place 2 fillets in the hot oil without crowding.
10Fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
11Adjust heat if browning too quickly.
12Transfer fried catfish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
13Repeat with remaining fillets.
14Serve hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or coleslaw.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Shallow dish
Whisk
Large skillet or cast iron pan
Paper towels
Plate

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, use fine cornmeal or add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the coating. Let the coated fillets rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the crust adhere better.

Watch Video Of How Buttermilk Fried Catfish Works

This buttermilk fried catfish recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need something quick and easy for yourself. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it with so many different sides to suit your tastes.

For example, we love serving it with hushpuppies or coleslaw for a classic Southern feel. Alternatively, you can pair it with some baked beans or grilled vegetables for a heartier meal that’s still relatively healthy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Fried Catfish

Q: What type of catfish should I use for this recipe?

The best type of catfish for this recipe is farm-raised channel catfish or blue catfish. Both varieties have a mild flavor and firm texture that works well with the buttermilk marinade.

Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

No, you should not substitute buttermilk with regular milk. Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which helps to break down the proteins in the fish and give it a tangy flavor.

Q: How long can I store leftover fried catfish in the fridge?

You can store leftover fried catfish in the fridge for up to three days.

Q: Can I reheat fried catfish in the microwave?

No, you should not reheat fried catfish in the microwave. Instead, reheat it in a pan with some oil over low heat until warmed through.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour used in the breading mixture.

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