Grandma's Fried Catfish

As long as you're frying catfish, fry up some Hush Puppies, too.

6 catfish fillets (good size)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
few drops of Tabasco or your favorite hot sauce (optional)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup bacon drippings or canola oil (or 2 tablespoons of each)

Sprinkle fillets on both sides with the pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and desired amount of hot sauce (Don't go overboard here; catfish has a delicate flavor, and the idea is just to suggest some spice -- not overpower).

Allow fillets to set at room temperature for 10 or 15 minutes. Combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder and remaining salt, mixing well. Dredge fillets in the flour/cornmeal mixture, and allow them to set for about 5 minutes. Fry fillets in hot oil for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until golden brown on both sides. Serve at once.