Ken's Beer Batter Fried Catfish

By foodiva

Ingredients

• 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)
• 1 ⁄2 lb catfish fillet
• 1 ⁄3 cup buttermilk (optional, you can also use milk)
• 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt
• vegetable oil

Preparation

Step 1

BATTER:.

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:.

Soak fillets in 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/3 cup buttermilk or milk (optional step).

COOKING:.

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.