Here’s a bold and flavorful Spicy Fried Catfish recipe — crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with just the right kick of heat. Perfect for a Southern-style dinner or fish fry night!
🔥 Spicy Fried Catfish Recipe
🐟 Ingredients:
For the fish:
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4 catfish fillets (about 6–8 oz each)
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or Louisiana)
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
For the coating:
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1 cup cornmeal
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat level)
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For frying:
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Vegetable oil, for deep or shallow frying
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Lemon wedges & hot sauce, for serving
🔪 Instructions:
1. Marinate the fish:
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In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
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Add catfish fillets and let soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
2. Make the breading:
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In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and more salt/pepper.
3. Coat the fish:
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Remove fillets from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to coat well.
4. Fry:
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Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast iron skillet or deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry catfish in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
🍽️ Serve with:
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Coleslaw, hush puppies, or cornbread
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Pickles and remoulade or tartar sauce
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A splash of lemon and hot sauce on top
🔥 Tips & Variations:
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Extra spicy? Add hot sauce directly to the breading mix or use chipotle powder instead of cayenne.
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Oven-fried version? Spray coated fish with oil and bake at 425°F for 18–20 mins, flipping halfway.
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Air fryer? 400°F for 12–14 mins, lightly sprayed with oil.