Tennessee-Fried Catfish
Crispy Tennessee-Fried Catfish offers a flavorful, golden crust with tender fish inside, perfect for seafood lovers and those craving classic Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle catfish with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Beat eggs with milk in a shallow dish.
- Dip catfish in the egg mixture; roll in cornmeal.
- Fry catfish in 1/8-inch hot shortening in a heavy skillet.
- Fry over medium heat until brown on both sides.
- Drain on absorbent paper and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider mixing in some breadcrumbs with the cornmeal. If you're out of cornmeal, try using a mixture of flour and crushed crackers. To enhance the flavor, add your favorite spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. Always ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tennessee-Fried Catfish with a side of coleslaw or hush puppies for a classic Southern meal. It pairs beautifully with Frances' Crab Meat Dip as an appetizer. A squeeze of lemon on top adds a refreshing touch, and consider serving with tartar sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the catfish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee-Fried Catfish contains roughly 195 calories, with 20g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1276mg per serving (55% 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 frozen catfish for this recipe?
Yes, frozen catfish can be used, but it's essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat the fish dry to ensure the coating adheres well. Thawed fish will also cook more evenly, preventing a soggy texture.
What can I serve with fried catfish?
Fried catfish goes well with traditional sides like cornbread, collard greens, or fried okra. You can also pair it with a refreshing salad or homemade pickles to balance the richness of the fish.
How do I know when the catfish is cooked through?
The catfish is done when it is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on it while frying 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).