Southern Fried Catfish Bites

A classic American appetizer originating from the Southern United States, this recipe for fried catfish bites is a mouth-watering twist on a traditional favorite. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for snacking on the go. With a blend of spices and herbs, each bite is bursting with flavor and texture.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 pound Catfish Fillets
• 1 cup All-purpose Flour
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 large Egg
• 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• 2 cups Vegetable Oil
• 2 tsp Hot Sauce
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Dill

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Cut the catfish fillets into 1-inch pieces and place them in a shallow dish.

2. 2

   Step 2: In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. 3

   Step 3: Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.

4. 4

   Step 4: In a large skillet, heat 1-inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.

5. 5

   Step 5: Dip each piece of catfish into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place the coated catfish on a plate or tray.

6. 6

   Step 6: Once the oil is hot, add a few pieces of the coated catfish to the skillet and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

7. 7

   Step 7: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried catfish from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

8. 8

   Step 8: Repeat the frying process with the remaining catfish pieces.

9. 9

   Step 9: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, hot sauce, and chopped dill. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the fried catfish pieces.

10. 10

    Step 10: Serve the fried catfish bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

💡 Pro Tips

For extra crispy coating, make sure to chill the coated catfish in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying. Be careful when working with hot oil, as it can cause severe burns. Store leftover fried catfish bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

📊 Nutrition per Serving