Purr fect Catfish Fingers

SERVES: 6

COOK TIME: 12 Min

Today catfish is farm-raised, but in the past it was common to catch a few of them by hand while bass fishing. Of course, if you're gonna do that, you've gotta be careful not to get bitten by their sharp teeth! So, once you've got the catfish (whether you buy 'em or catch 'em), fry 'em up this way and...well, let's just say you'll be the cat's meow!

What You'll Need

2 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, divided
1 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
2 cups self-rising cornmeal
1 1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch strips

What to Do

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; beat well.
In another shallow dish, combine the cornmeal and the remaining 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 3/4 teaspoon salt; mix well.
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Dip the catfish fingers in the egg mixture then in the cornmeal mixture, coating completely.
Cook the catfish fingers a few at a time for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Drain on a paper towel-lined platter. Serve immediately.