Crispy Fried Catfish with Hush Puppies – A Southern Classic

Experience the rich flavors of the South with this fried catfish with hush puppies recipe. The catfish, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, pairs beautifully with soft-on-the-inside, crispy-on-the-outside hush puppies. Whether you’re hosting a backyard fish fry or craving a quick meal, this dish promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 fillet + 3 hush puppies

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 28g
• Sodium: 560mg

Ingredients List

For the Fried Catfish

• 4 catfish fillets (6-8 oz each)
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups / 480ml)

For the Hush Puppies

• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Catfish Fillets

1. Rinse the catfish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, pour the buttermilk and soak the fillets for 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the fish and enhances flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

3. In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Remove the fillets from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and coat them in the cornmeal mixture. Press gently to ensure the breading sticks.

Step 3: Fry the Catfish

5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat (about 180°C / 350°F).
6. Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Hush Puppies

7. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
8. Stir in the buttermilk, egg, onion, and jalapeño until just combined (do not overmix). The batter should be thick.
9. Using a tablespoon, scoop out small portions of batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil (same temperature as for the catfish).
10. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the hush puppies are golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

11. Plate the fried catfish alongside a generous helping of hush puppies. Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (180°C). If the oil gets too cold, the fish may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Double Dredging Option: For an extra-crispy crust, dip the fillets back into the buttermilk and then again in the cornmeal mixture before frying.
• Hush Puppy Variations: Add chopped green onions, corn kernels, or bacon bits to the hush puppy batter for extra flavor.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes to retain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other fish instead of catfish?
A: Yes! You can substitute catfish with tilapia, cod, or any firm white fish like haddock or snapper.

Q: What dipping sauce pairs well with fried catfish?
A: Tartar sauce, hot sauce, or a lemon aioli complement fried catfish perfectly.

Q: How can I make the hush puppies fluffier?
A: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise. Also, avoid overmixing the batter to keep them light.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour blends in place of all-purpose flour for both the catfish and hush puppies.

Creative Closing Paragraph

This fried catfish with hush puppies recipe brings the soul of Southern cooking right to your table. With its crispy coating and tender fillets, paired with golden hush puppies, this dish is perfect for family meals or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or crave the charm of old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!