Lemon Pepper Hot Dipped Catfish

Bring the zest and zing to your dinner table with this Lemon Pepper Hot Dipped Catfish recipe. A Southern classic with a twist, this dish offers the perfect blend of the catfish’s mild, sweet flavor with the boldness of lemon pepper and the heat of your favorite hot sauce. Ideal for those who love their seafood with a side of spice, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a spirited gathering with friends, this lemon pepper catfish is sure to leave a lasting impression with its crispy coating and juicy interior, complemented by the bright freshness of lemon. Let’s get frying and create a dish that’ll make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving

Instructions:

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk and hot sauce. Place the catfish fillets in the milk mixture and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the flour coating stick to the fish and infuse it with a spicy flavor.
2. In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
3. Remove the catfish fillets from the milk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want to have enough oil to submerge the fillets completely or at least half an inch deep for pan-frying.
5. Dredge each milk-soaked fillet in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
6. Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil. Fry the catfish for about 4-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
7. Once cooked, remove the catfish from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Serve the hot fried catfish on a plate with lemon wedges and a sprinkling of fresh parsley. The lemon will add a fresh zing that complements the pepper seasoning.
9. Optionally, you can prepare a dipping sauce by mixing extra hot sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice to drizzle over the fish or dip on the side.

This lemon pepper hot dipped catfish recipe brings together the tanginess of lemon and the fiery kick of pepper for a delicious meal. Serve with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. Enjoy!