Southern Fish Fry Recipe

Introduction

Bringing the flavors of the South to your kitchen, a Southern fish fry is a delicious and traditional dish that is perfect for any gathering or family meal. This recipe combines crispy, golden-brown fish with a savory blend of spices that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this Southern fish fry recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 2 lbs white fish fillets (such as catfish or tilapia)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Oil for frying

For the Tartar Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Coat the Fish

Dredge each fish fillet in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the fish fillets in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Tartar Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Variations

Feel free to customize this Southern fish fry recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add more spices such as cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or experiment with different types of fish for a unique twist. Additionally, you can serve the fish fry with coleslaw, hush puppies, or other Southern sides for a complete meal.

Tips

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a crispy texture.
• Patting the fish dry before coating helps the breading adhere better.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying the fish to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning in the tartar sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Bringing the authentic flavors of the South to your table, this Southern fish fry recipe is a perfect blend of crispy, flavorful goodness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort food, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the crunchy texture of the fish paired with the tangy tartar sauce for a meal that will delight your senses.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use other white fish varieties such as cod or snapper.

Q: How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

A: The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and the breading is golden brown.

Q: Can I bake the fish instead of frying it?

A: While frying gives the fish a crispy texture, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.