Here’s a crispy, golden fried fish that’s simple, flavorful, and foolproof 🐟✨
Classic Fried Fish
Ingredients
- 1½–2 lbs white fish (catfish, tilapia, cod, whiting)
- Salt & black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + splash of lemon)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
Instructions
- Season fish
Pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion powder. - Soak
Place fish in buttermilk 15–30 minutes for tenderness. - Coat
Mix cornmeal and flour. Dredge fish, pressing coating on well. - Heat oil
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a skillet or deep pan. - Fry
Fry fish 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. - Drain
Remove to paper towels or wire rack. Season lightly with salt.
Tips for Perfect Fried Fish
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Keep oil hot for crispiness
- Cornmeal = crunch; more flour = lighter crust
Serving Ideas
- Coleslaw & fries
- Hushpuppies
- Tartar sauce or hot sauce
- Squeeze of lemon 🍋
If you want, I can share:
- Southern-style
- Beer-battered
- Air-fryer version
- Spicy Cajun fish
Just tell me!
