- Marinate Catfish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and cover with buttermilk. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and add flavor.
- Prepare Coating: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the fillets completely.
- Dredge Catfish: Remove the catfish from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly.
- Fry Catfish: Fry the catfish fillets in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Drain: Remove the catfish from the oil and drain on paper towels. This helps to remove any excess oil, keeping the fillets crispy.
Chicken Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and wings cut into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (NOT baking soda)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Your favorite wing sauce for coating
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare Chicken Wings: Pat the wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Season: In a large bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken wings and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
- Heat Oil: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry Wings: Fry the wings in batches, careful not to overcrowd the fryer, for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Coat with Sauce: After frying, toss the wings in your favorite sauce. This could be a classic Buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or something more creative like a honey garlic glaze.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the fried catfish and chicken wings with sides such as coleslaw, French fries, or hush puppies for a complete meal.
- Don’t forget dipping sauces! Ranch or blue cheese dressing for the wings and tartar sauce or hot sauce for the catfish enhance the flavors beautifully.
Conclusion:
Fried catfish and chicken wings are sure to be a hit at any meal, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your dishes are cooked to perfection, ready to be enjoyed by all.