Southern Fried Catfish

One of the greatest joys of living in Florida was access to the freshest seafood. One being, catfish. We loved some fried catfish! I like to keep the steps simple and let my homemade, seasoned batter mix do all of the talking! When it comes to catfish, the fresher the better! I loved to fry mine whole. I don’t mind a little softness to get that nice flaky filet. But, my family loves it thin and extra crispy! So, it’s nice to slice a few pieces length wise and fry theirs a little bit longer. It’s important NOT to over salt your cornmeal seasoning. It’s easily done. Be sure to taste the seasoning, so that you know how far to go. I always add a pinch of dried crab boil for an extra kick of flavor and spice. But, of course, that’s optional. I don’t use any buttermilk or eggs. I leave that for chicken. I like to keep the coating nice and light. This way the filets aren’t weighed down during the frying. You’ll just the perfect crunchy without all of that thick batter.

Ingredients:
2 lbs fresh catfish filets
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 tsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Accent
2 tsp Creole seasoning, or seasoned salt
1/2 tsp lemon pepper
1/2 tsp dry crab boil (optional)
canola oil for frying

Instructions:
In a shallow dish, cornmeal, flour, and all listed spices and seasonings. Mix well. Heat oil in a deep fryer or cast iron skillet to about 350 degrees F. Dredge each fish filet in the cornmeal mixture and shake off the excess. Fry the catfish for 3-5 mins per side (or total if deep frying) or until it’s as crispy as desired. Drain on paper towels. Enjoy!

Crab Boil Seasoning:
1 T cup sea salt
1 tablespoons dill seeds
1 tablespoon allspice
½ tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoons mustard seeds
½ tablespoon coriander seeds
½ tablespoon garlic powder
½ tablespoon onion powder

Creole Seasoning:
3 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoons cayenne, or more for a spicier version
1 tablespoons black pepper
1 tablespoons white pepper
1 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoons dried basil
1 tablespoons dried thyme

Accent Seasoning:
3 tbsp salt
½ tbsp garlic powder
½ tbsp onion powder
½ tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cayenne pepper
½ tbsp thyme
½ tbsp dried basil

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