Fried Catfish with French Fries

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread the 1 bag frozen french fries on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy, about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway.

Step 2

While fries bake, pat dry 4 catfish fillets. In a shallow dish, mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Step 3

Beat 1 egg in a shallow bowl. Dip each fillet in the egg, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4

Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fillets in batches, not crowding the pan, until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5

Serve the fried catfish with the hot fries and lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.