Beer Battered Fried Catfish

Recipe courtesy of The Catfish Institute.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Everglade seasoning (if not available, substitute 1/2 teaspoon salt)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano, crushed
3/4 cup beer at room temperature
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Vegetable oil, as needed for frying
1 pound U.S. Farm-Raised catfish fillets, cut into 3 to 4-inch strips

Cooking Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, #ajun seasoning, garlic powder, Everglades seasoning (or 1/2 teaspoon salt), baking powder, paprika, white and red ground peppers and oregano. Whisk in beer and egg until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
2. When Ready to Cook: In a deep skillet or large pan, pour vegetable oil to the depth of 3-inches; heat to 375°F (190°C).
3. Stir batter and fold in catfish. When oil is hot, lift fish strips with tongs, draining excess batter; place catfish in oil several pieces at a time (do not over crowd). Fry until well browned on all sides, about 3 minutes. Remove to paper towels to drain. Keep warm, repeat with remaining catfish.

Makes 8 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of The Catfish Institute.