Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) fresh white fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia)
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) cornmeal
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • Optional: 1 lemon (for serving)
  • 1 quart (950 ml) vegetable oil (or peanut oil) for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the fish by patting dry and cutting fillets into serving-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
  4. Dip each fish piece into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
  5. Place the coated fish pieces on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the coating.
  6. Heat oil in the outdoor fish fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Carefully add the fish pieces to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
  8. Fry until golden brown and fish flakes easily, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  9. Remove from fryer and drain on paper towels.
  10. Serve hot with lemon wedges.