Ingredients for Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets
- Catfish Nuggets
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups cornmeal
- Salt And Pepper
- 2 inches vegetable oil or enough for deep frying
How to Make Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets
- Pour 2 inches of oil into a large skillet (or use a deep fryer; a deep fryer is recommended for best results).
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat (or according to your deep fryer's instructions) until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A drop of batter should sizzle immediately.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup of buttermilk.
- Whisk until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, combine 2 cups of cornmeal, 1 tablespoon of your favorite Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Gently rinse the catfish nuggets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Dip each nugget into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge the nugget in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Carefully place the coated nuggets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet or fryer. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry for 3 minutes, then gently flip each nugget. Fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- If using a deep fryer, fry for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
- Remove the nuggets from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
9 g
Sugar
20g
Fat
12g
Carbs
20g