Simple and inexpensive to prepare, this Southern fried catfish recipe is a quick and easy main course you can combine with your favorite side. In a large skillet, heat 1/2-inch of oil over medium-high heat. Place the cornmeal in a medium bowl, add salt and pepper, and stir. Dip each fillet into the cornmeal mixture on both sides to coat.
You can use whichever cornmeal you prefer in this fried catfish recipe. I like white cornmeal, while my mother uses white self-rising flour and just puts in a little less salt (self-rising already has salt in it). You can also use yellow, plain, or self-rising cornmeal. When in doubt, go with what you have on hand.
All that’s missing is a side of crispy fries, right? This simple fried catfish recipe without buttermilk is exactly that – simple. Simply add the cornmeal coating and fry the catfish fillets until golden brown. Your delicious pan-fried catfish will be crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and ready to eat in minutes.
Ingredients 1 ½ cup buttermilk 2 ½ cup water 3 salt and pepper, to taste 4 1 pound catfish fillets, cut in strips 5 1 ½ cups fine cornmeal 6 ½ cup all-purpose flour 7 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning, such as Old Bay™ 8 1 quart vegetable oil for deep frying More ...