Southern Cornmeal Crusted Fried Catfish with Hushpuppies

I love catfish. Especially Mississippi farm raised catfish. When you shop for fish, please try to steer clear of foreign farm raised and stick with farmed or harvested in the USA.

2 lbs. farm raised catfish fillets, rinsed and patted dry

Salt

few grinds of black pepper

Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over catfish and set aside.

In a shallow dish or baking pan, combine the following:

2 cups white, self-rising cornmeal

few grinds of black pepper

1/2 t. seasoned salt

1/2 t. granulated garlic

1/2 t. onion powder

Pre-heat oil to 375 degrees F. either in a deep cast iron skillet.  You will need enough oil to allow the fish to float to the surface.  

Coat one piece of catfish at a time with the cornmeal mixture and turn to coat both sides completely.

SLOWLY add the fish into the oil a few pieces at a time.  Don't crowd the skillet.  Let fish cook 5 - 6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.  

Remove cooked fish from oil using tongs and place on paper towel lined plate to drain.  Place plate  in a warm oven to keep warm while you fry remaining fish.  Taste and sprinkle with a little salt if needed.

Serve with lemon wedges.