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Southern fried fish fillets served on a gray plate with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, and cocktail sauce bowls.

Southern Fried Fish Recipe

sophie
A crispy, flavorful Southern Fried Fish Recipe rooted in Southern hospitality. This dish features a cornmeal-flour coating and a special blend of spices for the perfect crunch, all while embracing the warmth and tradition of classic Southern cuisine.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1476 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep fryer
  • Cooking thermometer (to maintain oil between 350°F–375°F)
  • Paper towels or cooling rack (for draining excess oil)
  • Whisk (for batter)

Ingredients
  

  • lb Red Snapper or other white fish like catfish, tilapia, or cod
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • ¼ cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 Eggs
  • 2 tablespoons Hot sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 3 teaspoons Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Salt
  • Canola oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • 1½ lb Red Snapper (or other white fish like catfish, tilapia, or cod)
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • ¼ cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 Eggs
  • 2 tablespoons Hot sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 3 teaspoons Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Salt
  • Canola oil (for frying)

Notes

  • Oil Temperature Is Key: Maintaining 350°F–375°F helps achieve a crispy exterior without excess oil.
  • Dry the Fish: Patting the fillets dry ensures the coating sticks well.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches so the oil doesn’t lose heat and the fish fries evenly.
  • Nutritional Info: ~1476 calories per serving, primarily due to the frying oil.
  • Variations: Options include adding fresh herbs, Cajun spices, or buttermilk marinade.
Keyword Classic Southern Cuisine, Cornmeal Coating, Crispy Fried Fish, Southern Fried Fish