Description
Crispy, golden Cornmeal Fried Fish with a tender flaky inside and bold Southern flavor. Quick to make and absolutely satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1.5 pounds white fish fillets (like catfish, tilapia, or cod)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- In one bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.
- Pat the fish fillets dry. Dip each into the egg mixture, then coat with the cornmeal mixture. Press gently to adhere.
- Place fillets into the hot oil and fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Let rest for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and dipping sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for consistent results.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne to the coating for extra heat.
- Don’t skip drying the fish before coating for best adherence.
- Leftovers reheat best in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg