Southern Mustard Fried Catfish
A classic Southern recipe for crispy, golden fried catfish coated in a tangy yellow mustard and cornmeal mixture. This quick and easy dish tenderizes the fish while creating an unforgettable crunchy crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh catfish fillets (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1 cup medium-grind cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten with a little water
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Peanut oil or vegetable oil (for frying, about 1 inch depth in pan)
Instructions
- Rinse catfish fillets under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks and oil doesn’t splatter.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the yellow mustard, beaten eggs, and buttermilk to create the wet wash.
- In a large plate or shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Whisk to distribute spices evenly.
- Dip each fillet into the mustard wash, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the cornmeal mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. Press down hard to adhere the breading.
- Pour oil into a cast iron skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Carefully place fillets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Remove fish with tongs and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain. Sprinkle with extra salt while hot and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the catfish is completely dry before breading to prevent splattering and ensure the crust sticks. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and results in greasy fish. For extra crunch, double dredge the fish (wash, dry mix, wash, dry mix). If using frozen catfish, thaw completely and pat dry. Yellow mustard is recommended for authentic flavor and tenderizing properties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: Southern Mustard Fried Catfish, fried catfish recipe, cornmeal crusted fish, easy seafood dinner, southern cooking, crispy catfish, mustard fried fish