Nashville Style Hot Catfish Food

NASHVILLE HOT CATFISH

Steps:

• In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, eggs, 2 teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add catfish, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• In a large Dutch oven, pour oil to a depth of 4 inches, and heat over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350°.
• In a large shallow dish, whisk together flour, 1 tablespoon salt, and remaining 1 teaspoon black pepper. Remove catfish from buttermilk mixture. Dredge catfish in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Working in batches, fry catfish until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Let drain on paper towels. Reserve 6 tablespoons frying oil.
• In a small bowl, stir together reserved 6 tablespoons oil, ground red pepper, brown sugar, crushed red pepper, dill, garlic powder, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Using a brush, dab oil mixture onto one side of cooked catfish. Garnish with jalapeño, if desired.

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.