Cracker Barrel's Fried Catfish (Copycat Recipe)

This classic Fried Catfish recipe captures the essence of Cracker Barrel's beloved dish, featuring tender, flaky catfish fillets coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with a side of creamy coleslaw and tartar sauce, this dish brings the comforting flavors of Southern cooking right to your table.

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F).
5. Carefully add the coated catfish fillets to the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
6. Fry the catfish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the catfish from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with coleslaw and tartar sauce.