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Crispy Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets served with dipping sauce

Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets

Classic Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for dipping. This easy recipe is ideal for weeknights or game days.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the nuggets
  • 1 pound catfish fillets Fresh or thawed, should smell mild.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Helps the coating cling.
  • 0.5 cup cornmeal Brings the classic crunch.
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour Helps coat evenly.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for a little kick.
  • 2 cups oil for frying Use high heat oil like peanut or canola.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the catfish dry with paper towels.
  2. Put the catfish pieces in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Add a little salt and black pepper. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
  4. Pour oil into a heavy pan, about 1 to 1.5 inches deep, and heat over medium to medium-high heat.
Cooking
  1. Lift catfish pieces out of the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Toss in the cornmeal mix and press lightly to help the coating stick.
  2. Carefully add nuggets to the hot oil, frying a few minutes per side until they are deep golden and crisp.
  3. Move fried nuggets to a rack or a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt while hot.

Notes

Keep the fish dry before soaking for better coating adherence. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.