Savor the delicious fusion of flavors with our Lemon Pepper Fried Catfish recipe. This Southern-inspired dish combines crispy fried catfish with the zesty brightness of lemon and the bold kick of pepper. Learn how to create this mouthwatering meal that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Catfish:
- In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Add the catfish fillets to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
2. Prepare the Breading:
- In another shallow dish, combine the cornmeal and all-purpose flour.
3. Coat the Catfish:
- Remove the catfish fillets from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing the breading onto the fish to adhere.
4. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Catfish:
- Carefully place the breaded catfish fillets into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until the catfish is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried catfish from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve Hot:
- Serve the Lemon Pepper Fried Catfish hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.
With our Lemon Pepper Fried Catfish recipe, you can enjoy a delightful twist on Southern comfort food. The crispy goodness of fried catfish is combined with the zesty allure of lemon and the boldness of pepper in this dish. It’s a delectable meal that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. Follow our easy instructions to make this flavorful dish and enjoy a taste of Southern tradition with a modern twist.