Skip to main content
Epicurious
Bon Appétit

Crispy Buttermilk-Fried Catfish

Fried catfish on a piece of parchment paper in a container
Photograph by Isa Zapata, Food Styling by Taneka Morris, Prop Styling by Emma Ringness

The best fried catfish starts like fried chicken, with a buttermilk marinade. Because the fillets are so thin, they don’t need to soak for long; after just about 15 minutes, they’re ready for their closeup (a cornmeal crust, which shallow fries to a lovely golden brown color). Serve your fillets with coleslaw, fries, and a pair of sauces—ketchup and a quick pickle-packed rémoulade. The combo is key; ketchup brings the sweetness while the rémoulade provides brightness.

What you’ll need

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

Read More
Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
Beet-Salmon Salad With Horseradish Yogurt
Cooked beets, flaked salmon, and an array of crunchy vegetables crown a bed of spicy horseradish yogurt in this hearty salad.
Grilled Buttermilk Chicken With Summer Salad
Charred chicken breasts coated in a tangy dry rub sit atop a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and onions.
Turmeric-Dill Shrimp Stir-Fry
This quick shrimp stir-fry pairs earthy turmeric with a plethora of dill for a flavorful and fresh dinner that comes together in a flash.
Coconut Chicken Katsu With Smashed Cucumbers
These crispy cutlets feature a coconut-breadcrumb coating and sriracha mayo. Pair with a bright cuke salad to turn into a meal.
Shrimp and Pea Pancake
Inspired by Korean pajeon, this shrimp-studded pancake features fresh snap peas as a spring-y addition.
Chicharron Chicken Cutlets
Pork rind-crusted chicken is outrageous—outrageously good. Popular with children and adults alike, it’s a protein-packed gift that’s good for any occasion.
Mar i Muntanya
The original surf-and-turf, this rustic Spanish dish combines tender seafood and beefy meatballs in a thick, savory stew.