Buttermilk Fried Fillets
Crispy buttermilk fried fish fillets feature a flavorful coating and tender interior, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to seafood lovers and those craving Southern-style fried dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the fish fillets into serving size portions.
- Place the fish portions in a single layer in a shallow dish.
- Pour buttermilk over the fish and let stand for 30 minutes, turning once.
- Combine biscuit mix and salt in a bowl.
- Remove the fish from the buttermilk and roll in the biscuit mix mixture.
- Fry the coated fish in moderately hot cooking oil for 4 to 5 minutes or until browned.
- Turn the fish carefully and fry for another 4 to 5 minutes or until the fish is brown and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with lemon wedges or malt vinegar.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite spices to the biscuit mix. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. Keep an eye on the fish to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These buttermilk fried fillets are delightful served with lemon wedges or a drizzle of malt vinegar. Pair with a fresh coleslaw or crispy fries for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to a seafood platter alongside dishes like Hot Shrimp Canapes or Spicy Crab Chowder for a delicious gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again, rather than microwaving which may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Fried Fillets contains roughly 159 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1121mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute redfish with other firm white fish like catfish or tilapia. Just ensure the fish fillets are skinless and boneless for the best results.
What can I do if I don't have biscuit mix?
If you don’t have biscuit mix, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This will work similarly for coating the fish.
How can I tell when the fish is done frying?
The fish is done when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Frying typically takes 4 to 5 minutes per side, but keep an eye on the color to prevent overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).