Recipe: Crispy Fried Catfish

CRISPY FRIED CATFISH

6 medium catfish, cleaned and dressed
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 ounces hot sauce
2 cups self-rising cornmeal
vegetable oil (for frying)
watercress (optional, for garnish)
lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

Sprinkle catfish with salt and pepper; place in a shallow dish. Add hot sauce; marinate 1 to 2 hours in refrigerator.

WHEN READY TO COOK:
Place cornmeal in a plastic bag; drop in catfish, one at a time, and shake until completely coated.

Fry in deep hot oil (375 degrees F) until fish float to the top and are golden brown; drain well.

Garnish with watercress and lemon slices, if desired.

Makes 6 servings
Source: The Southern Living Cookbook, 1987

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