Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Glass OnionCornmeal Fried North Carolina Catfish Recipe

Cornmeal Fried North Carolina Catfish Recipe

Inspired by The Glass Onion
Time1h
Serves4

Fresh catfish coated in cornmeal and fried to perfection.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Method

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Catfish

    Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Marinate in Buttermilk

    Place the catfish fillets in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mix the Coating

    In a shallow dish, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.

  5. 5

    Coat and Fry the Catfish

    Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge the fillets in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Carefully place the fillets in the hot oil and 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 skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

More from The Glass Onion