Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Black pepper to taste

Mix everything together and chill for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Fried Catfish

• Use fresh catfish whenever possible.
• Marinating in buttermilk helps reduce any muddy flavor.
• Cornmeal creates the signature crispy Southern crust.
• Keep the oil around 350°F for the crispiest results.
• Don’t flip the fish too often—once per side is enough.
• Serve immediately for the best crunch.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy.

Enjoy your crispy Southern fried catfish with your favorite sides for a comforting meal everyone will love!