If you’re searching for a unique and flavorful seasoning to elevate your fish dishes, look no further than the Hillybilly Fish Seasoning Recipe. This seasoning blend combines the best of rustic, bold flavors to create a seasoning that will bring your fish to life.
What is Hillybilly Fish Seasoning?
Hillybilly fish seasoning is for those who appreciate the rural areas’ cuisine. You can combine this seasoning with any fish dish to enhance the flavour. Furthermore, it does so without losing any important components of taste; rather, it improves the taste. Be it barbequing, baking, or pan-frying, this mix of spices will guarantee a tasty dish.
Essential Ingredients for Hillbilly Fish Seasoning Recipe
There are two aspects of this recipe that make the Hillbilly fish seasoning recipe stand out. You can find many of these spices in your pantry. One needs the following materials:
- Paprika: 1 tbsp. (for a smoky, sweet flavor)
- Garlic Powder: 1 tbsp. (adds a savory, aromatic taste)
- Onion Powder: 1 tbsp. (enhances the overall depth of flavor)
- Black Pepper: 1 tsp. (for a bit of heat and earthy notes)
- Cayenne Pepper: ½ tsp (optional, for an extra spicy kick)
- Salt: 1 tsp. (to balance the flavors)
- Dried Thyme: ½ tsp (adds a touch of herby aroma)
- Dried Parsley: ½ tsp (for a hint of freshness)
- Cornmeal: 1 cup (for the crispy coating)
How to Make the Hillbilly Fish Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Seasoning Blend In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, thyme, and parsley. Combine all the spices well to avoid over-concentration of specific spices in some parts of the blend.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornmeal Coating In another bowl, prepare the cornmeal by mixing it with 2 tablespoons of the seasoning blend. The cornmeal will aid in creating that crunchy golden coat on the fish.
Step 3: Season the Fish Use a paper towel to pat the fish fillets dry. Use hands to apply a good quantity of the Hillbilly fish seasoning recipe directly on both fillets.
Step 4: Coat the Fish Apply the cornmeal mixture to the seasoned fish fillets, making sure each piece is entirely covered.
Step 5: Fry the Fish In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the coated fish fillets. Cook over moderate heat, turning once for about 3-4 minutes on each side and when the fish is golden brown and crisp. Drain fish from shallow pan and place on paper towels to absorb the drippings.
Tips for Perfect Hillbilly Fish Seasoning Recipe
- Use Fresh Fish: Fresh fish is always the best option when using this seasoning. Ideal choices include catfish, trout or bass; however, any white fish will suffice.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you would like a lesser spice, then you should use less cayenne pepper. Use more if you want greater heat.
- Make Extra Seasoning: The recipe is very easy to make, and you can double or even triple the spice and preserve it in an airtight container. It tastes great on chicken as well as potatoes and even vegetables.
Variations of the Hillbilly Fish Seasoning Recipe
Lemon Herb Hillbilly Seasoning
For a lighter, zesty version, add 1 tsp of lemon zest and 1 tsp of dried dill to the seasoning mix. The citrussy notes pair well with the flavor of the fish.
Spicy Cajun Hillbilly Seasoning
Wish to have something in more of the Cajun style, then spice up the dish by increasing the cayenne pepper to 1 tsp and adding 1 tsp of smoked paprika. This makes the fish even stronger and spicier.
Garlic Parmesan Hillbilly Seasoning
To make it more tantalizing and rich, mix in ¼ cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese into the cornmeal mixture. As the cheese melts and fries with the fish, it forms a layer that perfectly creates a crispy yet cheesy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you love Southern food, you should try the Hillbilly fish seasoning recipe. You can’t miss it. The mixture of spices has all that is needed to bring out the best in any fish dish. It makes it crunchy with an excellent taste that is impossible to say no to.