Nashville Hot Catfish Recipes

HOT AND CRISPY FISH SANDWICH

Steps:

• For the crispy fish: Heat 1 inch vegetable oil to 375 degrees F in a heavy-bottomed pan. Season the fish with salt and pepper on both sides.
• In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs and 2 tablespoons hot sauce. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cayenne, chili powder and 1 teaspoon each garlic powder and paprika.
• In a small saucepan (or in the microwave), melt the butter with the honey, remaining 2 tablespoons hot sauce and a pinch each garlic powder and paprika.
• In batches, dip the fish fillets into the egg mixture, coating each side, then let the excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, coating each side. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Transfer the fish to a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack. Use a pastry brush to coat each fillet with the melted butter mixture.
• For the sandwiches: Serve the fish on the toasted hoagie rolls with tartar sauce, shredded iceberg, sliced tomato and pickles.

NASHVILLE-STYLE HOT CATFISH

Steps:

• 1. Whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl. Add catfish. Cover and chill 24 hours.
• 2. Combine flour and next 3 ingredients. Remove catfish from buttermilk mixture, discarding mixture. Dredge catfish in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
• 3. Pour oil to depth of 1 1/2 inches into a large, deep skillet; heat to 325°. Fry catfish, in batches, 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fish flakes with a fork. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Sprinkle with salt to taste. Serve with additional hot sauce, if desired.