Cornmeal-Fried Fish
Crispy cornmeal-fried catfish with a flavorful, crunchy coating, perfect for a satisfying meal. Ideal for fish lovers craving a Southern-inspired fried dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the dressed catfish in a plastic bag.
- Pour buttermilk over the fish in the bag and coat evenly.
- In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, salt, baking powder, and pepper.
- Remove each fish from the buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the coated fish in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the cornmeal mixture. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust the frying oil temperature carefully; too hot can burn the coating, while too cool can make it soggy. This recipe is a great way to enjoy American recipes featuring fried fish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cornmeal-fried fish with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. Tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Cajun Catfish Ala 'A' for a delightful seafood feast, making it perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the coating is crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornmeal-Fried Fish contains roughly 242 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other firm white fish like tilapia or haddock if catfish isn't available. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted based on the thickness of the fish fillets.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the cornmeal with a gluten-free breading mix or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the buttermilk, are gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with the cornmeal-fried fish?
In addition to coleslaw, consider serving the fried fish with fries or hushpuppies for a classic Southern meal. A side of remoulade or spicy mayo also complements the dish nicely for dipping.
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).