• 1/2 cup yellow or white cornmeal
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning, optional (Old Bay brand seafood seasoning is preferred)
• 4 to 6 (4-to 8-ounce) catfish filets
• Peanut oil for deep frying

Thoroughly mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne and seafood seasoning in bowl. Dredge filets in mixture to coat completely.

Heat 2 to 3 inches peanut oil in large skillet to about 375 degrees. Drop 2 filets at a time in hot oil. Fry fish until golden brown, 4 to 7 minutes, depending on thickness, or until cooked as desired. Drain on paper towels.

Variation: For fish fingers, cut each filet into strips, then dredge in dry cornmeal mixture.

4 to 6 servings.

Down here we eat Cheese Grits, French Fries, and Hush Puppies with our catfish.