Southern Fried Fish Recipe
Welcome to a culinary journey deep into the heart of the American South, where flavors are as bold and vibrant as the hospitality is warm. Our Southern Fried Fish recipe embodies the essence of Southern comfort food—a dish celebrated for its crispy exterior, succulent interior, and a medley of spices that dance on the taste buds.
The secret to this recipe is the skill of marinating, which involves soaking the fish slowly in acidic buttermilk to give it softness and a slight acidity. The coating, which is a masterful fusion of cornmeal, flour, and spices, guarantees that every bite has the ideal amount of crunch and flavor. The fish is perfectly cooked to a golden hue, bringing out the combination of textures and flavors and leaving each bite with a satisfying crunch.
This Southern classic isn’t just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition passed down through generations, embodying the soulful spirit of Southern cooking. Whether shared around a family table or served at festive gatherings, Southern Fried Fish is a symbol of comfort, community, and a genuine love for good food.
Join us in celebrating the rich heritage of Southern cuisine with this delightful recipe—an invitation to savor the tastes of the South in your kitchen.
Southern Fried Fish Recipe Picture
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish fillets (such as catfish, tilapia, or cod)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Fish: Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator. This helps tenderize the fish and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a large shallow bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Coat the Fish: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
- Take each marinated fish fillet, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, and coat it thoroughly in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Press the coating onto the fish to ensure it adheres well.
- Fry the Fish: Carefully place the coated fish fillets into the hot oil, a few at a time, depending on the size of your skillet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried fish from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the Southern Fried Fish hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoy your Southern Fried Fish with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, hushpuppies, or creamy grits!
Nutritional Facts Southern Fried Fish (Per Serving, approximately 4 oz of fried fish)
- Calories: ~300-350 kcal
- Protein: ~20-25g
- Fat: ~15-20g (Varies depending on frying method and oil absorption)
- Saturated Fat: ~2-3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20-25g
- Dietary Fiber: ~1-2g
- Sugars: ~1-2g
- Cholesterol: ~50-60mg
- Sodium: ~500-600mg
- Vitamin D: ~10-15% DV
- Calcium: ~2-4% DV
- Iron: ~6-8% DV
- Potassium: ~8-10% DV
Conclusion
In conclusion, our Southern Fried Fish recipe offers a taste of Southern cuisine’s soulful essence. With its crispy texture, tender interior, and a blend of spices, it embodies the warmth ingrained in Southern cooking. Enjoy it as a family meal or at gatherings—it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and the joy of sharing delicious food. Bring the South to your kitchen, and let the enticing aroma and rich flavors transport you to a place where culinary tradition meets pure delight.