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Fish Fried The Southern Way

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  • Author: lilly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

Experience the comforting flavors of Southern-fried fish with crispy cornmeal coating and aromatic spices, perfect for family gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 5 fillets of white fish (catfish, tilapia, flounder, or whiting)
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (peanut, canola, or vegetable oil)
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Optional: 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • Optional: Hot sauce (to splash on fillets before coating)


Instructions

  1. Rinse the fish and pat it dry lightly, leaving them damp enough for the cornmeal to stick.
  2. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. If you like, add cayenne for a touch of heat.
  3. Place cornmeal in a large Ziploc bag. Add the seasoned fillets, seal, and shake gently to coat.
  4. Let the fillets rest for 5 minutes to allow the coating to set.
  5. Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F.
  6. Fry 1–2 fillets at a time for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  7. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  8. Serve hot with lemon or a splash of hot sauce, and enjoy immediately.

Notes

For a better flavor, preheat the oil adequately and consider adding hot sauce to the fillets before coating.