Ken'S Beer Batter Fried Catfish - cooking recipe

Ingredients

BATTER
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup beer (room temperature)
1 egg
1/2 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon cajun seasoning (optional)
1/4 teaspoon oregano (dried-optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
CATFISH
1/2 lb catfish fillet
1/3 cup buttermilk (optional, you can also use milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt
vegetable oil

Preparation

BATTER:
In a medium bowl, combine flour,cornstarch & your choice of seasonings,baking powder,salt and pepper, whisk in beer & egg until smooth, cover & refrigerate 1-2 hours.
CATFISH:
Soak fillets in 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/3 cup buttermilk or milk (optional step).
COOKING:
When ready to cook, in a deep skillet, heat oil (about 3\" deep) to 375 degrees.
Allow fillets to drip dry then lightly dab them with a paper towel to insure they are not wet, dip fillets in batter, lift strips with tongs, draining excess batter, then place catfish in oil several pieces at a time (do not over crowd fillets).
Fry until well browned on all sides (about 3 min.), remove and drain on paper towels.