Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
Catfish is a popular fish in the southern United States, and fried catfish is a classic dish that’s beloved by many. However, traditional fried catfish can be quite heavy and calorie-dense, which is why this recipe for Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish is a healthier alternative that still packs a punch of flavor.
➤ To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
▢2 (6-8 ounce) catfish fillets about 1 pound
▢½ cup buttermilk, shaken
▢Few dashes hot sauce
▢½ cup yellow cornmeal fine grind for breading
▢2 tablespoons all purpose flour
▢1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning preferably unsalted blend
▢½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
▢Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper
▢Extra virgin olive oil spray comes in a spray can
▢Tartar sauce, hot sauce, lemon wedges for serving
➤ To make this delicious Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish :
Place buttermilk in large shallow dish or pie plate, add a few shakes of hot sauce and mix to combine. Add catfish fillets and turn to coat. Let soak for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, make seasoned dredge. In another large tray or pie plate, add the cornmeal, flour and seasonings, a few grinds of black pepper and combine well with a fork or whisk.
Remove catfish from buttermilk to a plate, shaking off excess. Lightly pat dry and season with a sprinkle of salt.
Place catfish one at a time in seasoned cornmeal mixture and coat well on both sides. Shake off excess and place on a plate.
Preheat air fryer at 400º.
Open and spray basket evenly with olive oil spray. Lay catfish fillets in basket, one or two depending on size, spritz catfish evenly on top with olive oil spray. Close basket and air fry at 400º for 8 minutes.
Open basket and carefully flip fish over with spatula, air fry for another 8 minutes.
Open basket and carefully flip fish one more time. Air fry another 2 to 4 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Serve immediately with tartar sauce, hot sauce and lemon wedges.
➤ Tips and Variations:
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make this recipe by baking the coated catfish fillets in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- You can also adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more or less of the spices listed in the recipe.
- To make the dish even healthier, you can use whole wheat flour and whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of the all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs.
- This recipe also works well with other types of fish, such as tilapia or cod.
➤ Nutrition Facts:
This recipe yields 4 servings. Each serving contains approximately:
Calories: 319
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 29g
➤ Conclusion:
Air Fryer Southern Fried Catfish is a healthier take on a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal in no time. Try this recipe today and see for yourself how tasty and satisfying healthy eating can be!
That’s it, all you have to do is Enjoy !
‘Carammelle’ offers you everyday fresh, fun and easy recipes.
You can find the best quick and easy to make recipes, simple meal planning ideas and cooking techniques.