Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish is a deliciously crispy and golden dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking. Known for its tender, flaky catfish fillets coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter, this recipe is a delightful homage to traditional Southern fare. The combination of spices and frying technique creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect meal for casual family dinners or special occasions. Serve it with a side of coleslaw or hushpuppies for a complete Southern experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish recipe for its mouthwatering flavor and crispy texture. The catfish is seasoned to perfection, delivering a balanced taste that is neither overpowering nor bland. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, it fits into a Southern lifestyle that appreciates hearty, comforting meals without compromising on flavor. Serve it up for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, and watch it become a favorite at your table.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose Fresh Fish: Always opt for fresh catfish fillets for the best flavor and texture. If frozen, allow them to thaw completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For a deeper flavor, marinate the catfish in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before coating it in the cornmeal mixture.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet helps achieve an even, crispy fry due to its excellent heat retention. If you don’t have one, any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F for perfectly fried catfish. Too low will result in soggy fish, and too high can burn the coating.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the catfish in buttermilk and spices a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just make sure to store it covered in the refrigerator. The cornmeal mixture can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container. Once cooked, leftover catfish can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Catfish: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cornmeal mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour for additional flavor.
- Air Fryer Version: For a healthier twist, try cooking the coated catfish in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve
Serve your Southern Fried Catfish hot and fresh, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or fried green tomatoes for an authentic touch. Arrange the catfish on a rustic wooden platter for a charming presentation, and consider adding a few slices of pickles for a crunchy contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish, consider pairing it with a refreshing glass of sweet tea or a cold lager. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette also works well, alongside traditional sides like hushpuppies or baked beans. For dessert, a slice of pecan pie or banana pudding would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover catfish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, wrap the fried fillets in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for frying due to its heat retention.
- Tongs: For flipping the catfish safely in the hot oil.
- Thermometer: To monitor the oil temperature accurately.
- Mixing Bowls: For the marinade and coating mixtures.
Dietary Adaptations
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour and cornmeal with gluten-free alternatives. To make it dairy-free, use a non-dairy milk option for marinating instead of buttermilk. Keep in mind that while catfish itself is naturally low in allergens, be cautious of cross-contamination if you have severe allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the warmer months, consider serving with a side of fresh summer corn salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. During the cooler months, pair it with hearty sides like creamy mashed potatoes or collard greens to create a comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different fish? Yes, other mild white fish like tilapia or cod can be used, but the cooking time may vary.
- How long does it take to fry catfish? Each fillet typically takes about 3-4 minutes on each side for a golden brown finish.
- Can I prepare the batter in advance? Yes, the cornmeal mixture can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container.
How To Make Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish
Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish
Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish is a deliciously crispy and golden dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking.
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Start by marinating the catfish fillets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Remove fillets from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge them in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to transfer the fried catfish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 436Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 97mgSodium 590mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 33g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish at home is a delightful way to experience Southern cuisine. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of spices and cooking techniques to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this catfish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it and savor every delicious bite!
