NASHVILLE-STYLE HOT CATFISH

Steps:

• Whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl. Add catfish. Cover and chill 24 hours.
• Combine flour and next 3 ingredients. Remove catfish from buttermilk mixture, discarding mixture. Dredge catfish in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
• Pour oil to depth of 1 1/2 inches into a large, deep skillet; heat to 325°. Fry catfish, in batches, 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fish flakes with a fork. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Sprinkle with salt to taste. Serve with additional hot sauce, if desired.
• Note: We tested with Tabasco Habanero Sauce.
• Try This Twist!
• Nashville-Style Hot Chicken: Substitute 3 lb. chicken drumsticks for catfish. Proceed with recipe as directed through Step 2. Preheat oven to 350°. Pour oil to depth of 1 inch into a large, deep skillet; heat to 325°. Fry drumsticks, in batches, 6 to 8 minutes or until lightly browned, turning occasionally. Transfer to a wire rack in a jelly-roll pan. Bake 15 minutes or until done. Hands-on Time: 40 min.; Total Time: 55 min., plus 24 hr. for chilling.