Description
Experience the cherished Southern tradition of frying fish, delivering a crispy and flavorful meal perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 5 fillets of white fish (catfish, tilapia, flounder, or whiting)
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (peanut, canola, or vegetable oil)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Optional: Hot sauce (to splash on fillets before coating)
Instructions
- Rinse the fish fillets and pat them dry lightly. Ensure they are slightly damp for cornmeal adherence.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides of the fillets. Optionally add cayenne pepper for heat.
- Place cornmeal in a large Ziploc bag. Add the seasoned fillets, seal, and shake gently to coat.
- Let the fillets rest for 5 minutes to allow the coating to set.
- Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F.
- Fry 1-2 fillets at a time for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot with lemon or a splash of hot sauce and enjoy immediately.
Notes
For an extra thick coating, consider using a double-dipping method by dipping fillets in seasoned flour before cornmeal.