Southwest Fried Oysters

Ingredients

• 2 pints fresh select oysters, drained
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• vegetable oil

Directions

1. 1

   Combine oysters and buttermilk in a large heavy-duty zip-lock plastic freezer bag.

2. 2

   Seal bag and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

3. 3

   Drain oysters well.

4. 4

   In a shallow pan, combine the flour and next 9 ingredients.

5. 5

   Dredge oysters in flour mixture; shake off excess.

6. 6

   Pour oil to a depth of 1 inch in a Dutch oven; heat to 370°.

7. 7

   Fry oysters in batches, 3 minutes or until golden; drain on paper towels.

8. 8

   Serve immediately.