Southern Fried Catfish

Directions

1. 1
   Whisk together egg, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.
2. 2
   Pulse saltines in a food processor until finely ground, then stir together with cayenne and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a shallow baking dish.
3. 3
   Dip 1 catfish fillet into egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge in saltines to coat and transfer to a wax-paper-lined tray.
4. 4
   Coat remaining fillets in same manner.
5. 5
   Preheat oven to 300F.
6. 6
   Heat oil in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot (preferably cast-iron) over high heat until it registers 360F on thermometer.
7. 7
   Carefully lower 1 fillet into oil (temperature of oil will drop to 340F), then fry until golden and just cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes.
8. 8
   Transfer fillet with a slotted spatula to a rack set over paper towels to drain briefly, then transfer to a shallow baking pan and keep hot in oven.
9. 9
   Fry remaining fillets in same manner, returning oil to 360F each time.