Mississippi-Style Fried Catfish

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Mississippi-Style Fried Catfish – Crispy, Golden & Full of Southern Soul 🎣🍋

Introduction

This isn’t just fried fish — it’s Mississippi-style Fried Catfish, y’all. Passed down from Big Mama’s kitchen, this recipe brings together the perfect crispy golden coating and tender, flaky catfish inside. With a soulful mix of seasonings, a hint of heat, and that unmistakable Southern tradition, it’s the kind of dish that makes every bite a taste of home. Serve it with hushpuppies, coleslaw, or fries for a true Southern feast.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Dry Coating

  • 1½ cups fine yellow cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2½ to 3 tsp seasoned salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp lemon pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Wet Mix

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp hot sauce (Louisiana-style recommended)

Fish

  • 1 lb catfish fillets, patted dry (cut into smaller pieces if you prefer finger-style)

Tips for Success

  1. Patting the catfish dry ensures the coating sticks and fries up crispy.
  2. Use a cast-iron skillet for the best heat retention and crust development.
  3. Keep the oil at a steady 350°F for even cooking and to avoid greasy fish.
  4. Let the fish rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep it crispy.
  5. Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference — or add more hot sauce for extra kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep Your Fish: Pat catfish fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk eggs and hot sauce. In another bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, and seasonings.
  3. Dredge and Coat: Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornmeal blend, pressing lightly so the coating sticks.
  4. Fry It Up: Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Fry catfish 2–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Drain and Serve: Place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with extra lemon pepper or hot sauce and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 360
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 28g

*Values will vary depending on oil absorption and portion sizes.*

Make It Lighter / Variations

  1. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter option.
  2. Use corn flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
  3. Try adding garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor depth.
  4. Swap catfish for tilapia or cod if desired.

Serving Ideas

  • Pair with hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries for a classic Southern platter.
  • Serve over a bed of greens with a squeeze of lemon for a lighter meal.
  • Add a side of tartar sauce, remoulade, or spicy mayo for dipping.

Keywords: Mississippi fried catfish, Southern fried fish recipe, crispy catfish fillets, soul food fish

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