Fried Catfish Basket recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Aug 04 2026
RestaurantsThe Boiling CrabFried Catfish Basket Recipe

Fried Catfish Basket Recipe

Inspired by The Boiling Crab
Time1h
Serves4

Indulge in our Fried Catfish Basket, featuring tender, flaky catfish fillets seasoned to perfection and coated in a crispy golden batter. Served with a side of zesty tartar sauce and a generous helping of fries, this dish captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Enjoy the satisfying crunch with each bite, paired with a refreshing squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor!

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Ingredients

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Fried Catfish Ingredients

Method

Fried Catfish Preparation

  1. 1

    Marinate the Catfish

    In a medium bowl, soak the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the fish and adds flavor.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Coating

    In a separate bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  3. 3

    Coat the Catfish

    Remove catfish fillets from buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess coating.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Catfish

    Carefully add the coated catfish fillets to the hot oil, frying them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

  6. 6

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried catfish from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with lemon wedges and optional coleslaw.

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