Description

Enjoy a Southern-inspired crispy fried fish coated with a perfectly balanced, homemade Hillbilly Fish Fry Seasoning. This blend of smoky paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne, and herbs ensures a flavorful, crunchy bite every time. Whether for a backyard gathering or a weeknight dinner, this easy, no-fail recipe will bring everyone to the table!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Hillbilly Fish Fry Seasoning Blend:

2 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp black pepper
1 ½ tsp kosher salt
1 tsp lemon zest

For the Fish Fry:

4 white fish fillets (such as catfish, tilapia, or cod)
1 cup buttermilk (for soaking, optional)
1 cup cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
1 tbsp Hillbilly Fish Fry Seasoning (prepared above)
1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Prepare the Seasoning Blend:
- In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, dill, black pepper, kosher salt, and lemon zest. Store in an airtight container.
Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- (Optional) Soak fish in buttermilk for 30 minutes for added tenderness and flavor.
Create the Coating Mix:
- In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, and 1 tbsp of the prepared Hillbilly Fish Fry Seasoning.
Coat the Fish:
- Remove fish from buttermilk (if used) and let excess drip off.
- Dredge each fillet in the seasoned cornmeal-flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry the Fish:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place fish in the hot oil, frying in small batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve:
- Enjoy hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, coleslaw, or hush puppies!

Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with gluten-free flour or use only cornmeal.
Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred spice level.
Store leftover seasoning in an airtight jar for up to 6 months.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer for even frying.
Keep oil temperature consistent to ensure crispiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Fried
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg