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Ingredients
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Fried Whole Catfish Ingredients
Method
Directions for Fried Whole Catfish
Prepare the Catfish
Rinse the whole catfish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Marinate
Soak the catfish in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
Coat the Fish
Remove catfish from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge the catfish in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Catfish
Carefully place the coated catfish in the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain and Serve
Remove the catfish from the oil and let drain on paper towels. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.