Battered Catfish

Ken's Beer Batter Fried Catfish

http://www.food.com/recipe/kens-beer-batter-fried-catfish-368319

BATTER

1/4 cup flour

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup beer* (room temperature)

1 egg

1/2 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)

1 tablespoon cajun seasoning** (optional)

1/4 teaspoon oregano (dried-optional)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch & your choice of seasonings, baking powder, salt and pepper. Whisk in beer & egg until smooth; cover & refrigerate 1-2 hours.

CATFISH

1/2 lb catfish fillet

1/3 cup buttermilk*** (optional, you can also use milk)

1/2 teaspoon salt

vegetable oil

Soak fillets in salt and buttermilk or milk (optional step that's supposed to cut down on "fishy" taste).

When ready to cook, in a deep skillet, heat oil (about 3" deep) to 375 degrees.

Allow fillets to drip dry then lightly dab them with a paper towel to insure they are not wet, dip fillets in batter, lift strips with tongs, draining excess batter, then place catfish in oil several pieces at a time (do not over crowd fillets).

Fry until well browned on all sides (about 3 min.), remove and drain on paper towels.

*I used water instead of beer and it was too watery. I'd try about 1/3 cup water next time.

**I used Creole seasoning.

**I used milk with a little vinegar: homemade buttermilk.