Ultimate Southern Style Drum Fish Recipe
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsTips for SuccessIf you're a seafood enthusiast, you're in for a treat with this Ultimate Southern Style Drum Fish Re……
Guide or Summary：
If you're a seafood enthusiast, you're in for a treat with this Ultimate Southern Style Drum Fish Recipe. This dish brings together the rich flavors of the South, creating a culinary masterpiece that is sure to impress your family and friends. Let's dive into the details of this mouth-watering recipe.
Ingredients
To create the perfect drum fish recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of fresh drum fish fillets
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 cup of cornmeal
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Drum Fish Fillets**: Start by rinsing the drum fish fillets under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Cut the fillets into manageable portions if they are too large.
2. **Marinate in Buttermilk**: Place the drum fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure that all the fillets are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the fish and infuse it with a rich, tangy flavor.
3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
4. **Coat the Fish**: Remove the drum fish fillets from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess coating.
5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil's readiness by dropping a small piece of the coated fish into it. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
6. **Fry the Fish**: Carefully place the coated drum fish fillets into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook each fillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked fillets and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. **Serve and Garnish**: Transfer the fried drum fish fillets to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The lemon adds a zesty freshness that complements the rich flavors of the fish.
Tips for Success
- **Freshness Matters**: Always use fresh drum fish fillets for the best flavor and texture. If fresh drum fish is not available, you can use frozen fillets, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before marinating.
- **Seasoning Variations**: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a unique twist.
- **Oil Temperature**: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown fish. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil, and adjust the heat as needed to keep it at a steady 350°F (175°C).
- **Serving Suggestions**: This drum fish recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides such as coleslaw, hush puppies, and cornbread. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of creamy tartar sauce or a tangy remoulade.
This Ultimate Southern Style Drum Fish Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the South. The crispy, golden-brown coating encases tender and flavorful drum fish fillets, making it a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Southern-style drum fish!