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picy Cajun Fried Catfish

Spicy Cajun Fried Catfish: A Comforting Southern Delight

This Spicy Cajun Fried Catfish recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food with its crispy texture and flavorful spices.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 38 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fish
  • 4 fillets Catfish Fresh and firm
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard Helps the coating stick
  • 2 tbsp Tabasco Sauce Adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed preferred
For the Coating
  • 3 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Can make your own
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup Yellow Cornmeal Essential for crunch
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Use freshly ground for best flavor
For Frying
  • Oil Vegetable Oil or Lard High smoke point recommended

Equipment

  • Deep fryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Slotted spoon
  • thermometer
  • Large dish or zipped plastic bag

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Catfish: Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry. Slice into strips, about 1-2 inches wide.
  2. Create the Marinade: Whisk together buttermilk, yellow mustard, Tabasco, lemon juice, and Cajun seasoning in a bowl.
  3. Marinate the Fish: Submerge catfish strips in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Prepare the Coating: Combine flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper in a dish.
  5. Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a fryer or skillet to 375-400°F.
  6. Coat the Catfish: Remove catfish from the marinade, dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
  7. Fry the Catfish: Fry coated catfish strips in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Drain and Serve: Remove fried catfish with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, do not overcrowd the pan while frying and ensure oil temperature is correct.

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