Teresa's Recipes
Crispy Southern-Style Fish Fry
Dive into a plate of nostalgia with this Crispy Southern-Style Fish Fry! Tender fish fillets are enveloped in a light, crispy batter that crackles with each bite, delivering a burst of flavor reminiscent of family gatherings and southern hospitality. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience of comfort, warmth, and joy, perfect for a cozy family dinner or festive gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing tartar sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon to elevate the dish's flavors. Did you know that the tradition of frying fish has deep roots in Southern cuisine, often served alongside classic sides like coleslaw and hushpuppies? It's a beloved comfort food that brings people together around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- for frying Vegetable oil
- 1 cup Milk
- 1, beaten Egg
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1 cup Cornmeal
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1-2 pounds Fish fillets (such as catfish or tilapia)
- for serving Tartar sauce
- for serving Lemon wedges
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4-6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the spices are evenly distributed.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the beaten egg and milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Take each fish fillet and dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the coated fillet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Return the fillet to the flour mixture and coat it again, pressing the mixture onto the fish to ensure it adheres well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there is enough oil to fully submerge the fish for even cooking.
- Carefully place the coated fish fillets into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish are golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, remove the fish from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot with tartar sauce and lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish fillets in a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce for an hour before coating.
- Try adding some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicier kick.
- Pair this dish with classic sides such as coleslaw, fries, or cornbread for a complete Southern meal.