A Taste of Tradition: Southern-Style Fried Catfish in Savannah When it comes to Lowcountry cuisine, few dishes embody the spirit of the American South like fried catfish.

A Taste of Tradition: Southern-Style Fried Catfish in Savannah

When it comes to Lowcountry cuisine, few dishes embody the spirit of the American South like fried catfish. Crispy, golden, and served with a side of hushpuppies or coleslaw, this beloved dish is a staple of Savannah's culinary scene. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Southern-style fried catfish, exploring its history, where to try it, and how to make it yourself.

![image: savannah, lowcountry, seafood](

Fried catfish has its roots in traditional African American cuisine, dating back to the antebellum era when enslaved individuals in the South would cook fish caught from nearby rivers. After emancipation, Southern cooks continued to perfect their recipes, incorporating elements of Caribbean and European influences into the dish. Today, fried catfish remains a proud symbol of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition.

The Perfect Catch

To experience the authentic taste of Southern-style fried catfish in Savannah, head to one of the city's renowned seafood restaurants. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Olde Pink House: Located in the heart of Savannah's Historic District, this 18th-century mansion-turned-restaurant serves up mouth-watering fried catfish with a side of creamy coleslaw.
• Bernie's Oyster House: This cozy seafood spot on Broughton Street offers a range of fish dishes, including their signature fried catfish plate.

When trying fried catfish at a local restaurant, be sure to order it "Southern-style" – that means extra crispy and served with a side of tangy hushpuppies or creamy coleslaw.

A Recipe for Success

Want to try your hand at making Southern-style fried catfish at home? Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. 2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate dish. 3. Dredge each catfish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. 4. Dip the floured fillets in the buttermilk, making sure they're fully coated. 5. Roll the fillets in the flour mixture again to coat evenly. 6. Fry the catfish in hot oil (around 350°F) for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Where to Find the Best Fried Catfish

While there are many excellent seafood restaurants in Savannah, some stand out from the rest when it comes to fried catfish. Be sure to try:

• The Crab Shack: Located on Tybee Island just outside of Savannah, this casual seafood spot serves up fresh, locally-caught fish at unbeatable prices.
• River Street Sweets: While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, River Street Sweets offers an impressive selection of fried catfish and hushpuppies.

Tips for Travelers

When trying Southern-style fried catfish in Savannah, keep the following tips in mind:

• Be adventurous and try it with a side of hushpuppies or coleslaw for an authentic taste experience.
• Don't be afraid to ask your server about local recommendations – they'll often have insider knowledge on the best dishes and restaurants in town.
• If you're cooking fried catfish at home, make sure to use fresh fish and follow proper food safety guidelines.

Hours, Fees, Location Hints

Hours: Vary by restaurant; check official websites or call ahead for specific hours. Fees: Prices range from $15-$30 per plate; hushpuppies and coleslaw often extra. Location: Find restaurants in Savannah's Historic District, on River Street, and near Forsyth Park.