Growing up in Manhattan, I always loved spending summers visiting my grandma down south. One fond memory is of her Fish Fried The Southern Way . It’s the perfect mix of crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. This is a family recipe that brings back memories of those long, lazy afternoons sitting in Grandma’s kitchen. Now, I’m bringing it to you with all its comforting glory.
If you enjoy this delightful dish, be sure to try the Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipes for a perfect family brunch idea.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This classic southern fried fish is so easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Using just a few simple ingredients that you’re likely to have on hand, you’ll get beautifully golden fish that’s flavorful and crispy. No need for complicated steps or fancy equipment. Plus, with its quick cooking time, it’s a lifesaver on busy days when energy levels are low, but everyone’s hungry.
Ingredients
- 5 pieces of White Fish, cut into long lengths
- Vegetable Oil, enough to fully cover the fish when frying
- 1/2 cup Yellow Cornmeal
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-step instructions
- Ensure your fish is slightly damp. Rinse it under water and gently shake off the excess.
- Sprinkle the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper evenly on both sides of the fish. Rub the seasonings in well.
- Place the seasoned fish into a large bag or bowl filled with cornmeal. Toss until each piece is fully coated. Let it sit aside for 15-20 minutes.
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a large pan to completely cover the fish. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Carefully add your fish to the hot oil. Fry for about 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Recipe tips & variations
- Thicker filets : If your fish pieces are thicker, adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through.
- Spice it up : Like it hot? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Different fish : While white fish is traditional, you can experiment with catfish or tilapia for equally tasty results.
Storage & reheating
If you have any leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cornmeal?
Absolutely! Using stone-ground or a mix of different cornmeal grains can add texture and depth to the crust.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
A little trick is to drop a small bit of batter or cornmeal into the oil. If it bubbles up and starts sizzling, your oil is hot enough.
What sides go well with Fish Fried The Southern Way ?
Some great sides include coleslaw, cornbread, or just simple fries. It makes for a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Recipes you may like
Try these other delicious recipes that could be perfect for any occasion:
- Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipes
- Breakfast Potatoes Recipe Easy & Crispy
- Breakfast Pizza Recipe Easy & Cheesy
Fish Fried The Southern Way
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A classic southern fried fish recipe that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 5 pieces White Fish, cut into long lengths
- Vegetable Oil, enough to fully cover the fish when frying
- 1/2 cup Yellow Cornmeal
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Ensure your fish is slightly damp. Rinse it under water and gently shake off the excess.
- Sprinkle the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper evenly on both sides of the fish. Rub the seasonings in well.
- Place the seasoned fish into a large bag or bowl filled with cornmeal. Toss until each piece is fully coated. Let it sit aside for 15-20 minutes.
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a large pan to completely cover the fish. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Carefully add your fish to the hot oil. Fry for about 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Notes
- Thicker filets: If your fish pieces are thicker, adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through.
- Spice it up: Like it hot? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Different fish: While white fish is traditional, you can experiment with catfish or tilapia for equally tasty results.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg