Fried Catfish

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 ½ cups cornmeal

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Catfish

   • Rinse the catfish fillets and pat dry.

   • In a bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce.

   • Submerge the fillets and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours in the fridge).

2. Prepare the Coating

   • In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Fish

   • Remove fillets from the buttermilk and let excess drip off.

   • Dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks.

4. Fry the Catfish

   • Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).

   • Fry the fillets in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

   • Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

5. Serve

   • Serve hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or hot sauce.

   • Pair with coleslaw, hush puppies, or French fries for a classic Southern meal.