If you’re looking for a crispy, sweet, and savory seafood dish, this Honey Fried Catfish recipe is a must-try! The combination of a crunchy golden crust with the hint of honey creates a unique and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup honey
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Marinate the Catfish: Place the catfish fillets in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator) to tenderize the fish and remove any strong flavors.
- Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the Fish: Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the seasoned cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Catfish: Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Drizzle with Honey: While the catfish is still warm, drizzle each fillet with honey for a sweet and savory finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with coleslaw, cornbread, or your favorite sides!
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of fish? Yes! You can substitute catfish with tilapia, cod, or another firm white fish.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I keep fried catfish crispy? Place the fried fillets on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Notes and More:
- If you prefer a lighter honey flavor, brush the honey on instead of drizzling.
- Serve with hot sauce for an extra kick!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Enjoy this crispy, flavorful Honey Fried Catfish and let us know how it turned out!
