Description
This Homemade Cornmeal Fish Fry Mix is a flavorful and easy-to-make coating blend perfect for making crispy fried fish. Combining cornmeal, flour, and a bold mix of spices like paprika, lemon pepper, and cayenne, this mix ensures a crunchy and seasoned crust that enhances the delicate flavor of your fish. Ideal for deep frying at home, it offers a classic Southern-style fish fry experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups white or yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For Frying
- Fish fillets, cleaned and washed (quantity as desired)
- Canola or peanut oil, heated to 375°F (for deep frying)
Instructions
- Mix the Frying Blend: Place all the dry ingredients into a plastic bowl with a lid or a brown paper lunch bag. Shake vigorously to thoroughly combine the cornmeal, flour, and spices, ensuring an even blend of flavors.
- Coat the Fish: Drop cleaned and washed fish fillets into the bowl or bag containing the cornmeal mix. Shake vigorously again so the fish is completely coated with the mixture, forming a seasoned crust.
- Heat the Oil: Preheat canola or peanut oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 375°F (190°C) for deep frying. The oil should be hot enough to crisp the fish quickly without absorbing excess oil.
- Deep Fry the Fish: Carefully place the coated fish fillets into the hot oil. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the fish turns golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooks through inside. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to turn the fish if needed for even frying.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried fish from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Notes
- Use fresh white or yellow cornmeal for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the cayenne pepper quantity accordingly.
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent at 375°F to avoid greasy fish.
- This mix can be prepared in larger batches and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
