Indulge in a classic with our irresistible Crispy Fried Catfish with Homemade Tartar Sauce recipe. This dish combines tender catfish fillets marinated in a delightful blend of buttermilk, egg, and spices, perfectly complemented by a crispy breading seasoned with cornmeal and Creole spices. As the catfish sizzles to golden perfection in hot oil, the aroma fills the kitchen with anticipation. And what’s catfish without its perfect partner? Our tangy Homemade Tartar Sauce, made with creamy mayonnaise, zesty onion, and a hint of lemon juice, adds a burst of flavor that elevates each bite. Get ready to experience the ultimate Southern comfort food—crispy, flavorful, and downright delicious. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Crispy Fried Catfish with Homemade Tartar Sauce
Crispy Fried Catfish with Homemade Tartar Sauce is a delicious dish featuring tender catfish fillets marinated in a flavorful mixture of buttermilk, egg, and spices, coated in a crispy breading made with cornmeal, flour, and seasoning. The catfish is fried until golden and crispy, then served with a tangy homemade tartar sauce made with mayonnaise, onion, relish, lemon juice, and spices. This dish offers a perfect balance of crunchy texture and savory flavors, enhanced by the zesty tartar sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 Catfish Fillets
- 2-3 Cups or More of Frying Oil
- Extra Lemon Wedges
Catfish Marinade:
- 2 Cups Buttermilk
- 1 Egg
- 1 Tbsp Mustard
- 2-3 Dashes of Hot Sauce
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Catfish Breading:
- 2 Cups Cornmeal
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1-2 Tbsp Creole Seasoning
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Homemade Tartar Sauce:
- 1 Cup Mayonnaise
- ½ Small Onion Grated
- 2 Tbsp Sweet Relish
- 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- In a 9×9 baking dish or reusable bag, combine all ingredients for the catfish marinade. Add the catfish fillets to the marinade and let them marinate for 20 minutes.
- In a 9×13 baking dish or large container, mix together all ingredients for the catfish breading. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients for the homemade tartar sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large pot, heat 2-3 cups of frying oil until hot. Take one catfish fillet at a time, coat it thoroughly in the breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Shake off any excess breading and carefully place the coated fillet into the hot oil.
- Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees. Transfer the fried catfish to a roasting rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve the crispy fried catfish with homemade tartar sauce and extra lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!