Whole Fried Catfish Recipe
Served with tartar sauce, lemon wedge, choice of potato, soup or salad
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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Method
Cooking Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Fish
Rinse the whole catfish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make shallow slits on both sides of the fish for better cooking.
- 2
Marinate
Soak the catfish in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- 3
Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- 4
Coat the Fish
Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the fish in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 6
Fry the Fish
Carefully place the coated catfish in the hot oil. Fry for about 8-10 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the catfish from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.





