3 Whole Bone In (catfish) Recipe

Rinse the whole catfish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any loose fins or ragged edges. Leave skin and bones intact.

In a large shallow bowl or container, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Submerge the catfish in the buttermilk mixture, turning to coat both sides. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This tenderizes the fish and reduces fishy aroma.

While the fish marinates, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper in a wide shallow dish. Make sure there are no lumps.

Set a wire rack over a baking sheet. After marinating, remove each catfish from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the fish thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture, pressing the coating onto the skin and into any crevices around the bone to ensure good adhesion. Shake off excess.

Pour oil into a large heavy skillet or deep fryer so it reaches about 1 to 1.5 inches deep (about 3–4 cups depending on pan). Heat over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a pinch of the coating into the oil — it should sizzle and float immediately.

Working in batches (do not overcrowd), gently lower the coated whole catfish into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the coating is golden brown and the internal flesh reaches 145°F (63°C) near the bone. Use care when turning the fish so the coating does not tear; a fish spatula or two tongs helps support the fish.

When cooked, transfer the fish to the prepared wire rack to drain and rest for 3–4 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp and allows juices to redistribute.

Squeeze lemon wedges over the fried catfish, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and add hot sauce on the side if desired.

Serve whole so guests can cut portions at the table, or portion into steaks by slicing between bones. Provide extra napkins — fried catfish can be messy but delicious.