Cat Fish Stew
A hearty catfish stew with rich tomato flavors, onions, and smoky bacon, perfect for comforting meals during cold days or outdoor camping adventures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the fat back until crispy, then remove from the grease and cut into pieces.
- Chop onions and sauté in the bacon grease until they are clear.
- Add Campbell's tomato soup and catsup to the onions, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking until the catfish are fork tender.
- Serve the stew over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked catfish or adding a dash of hot sauce to the stew. If you don't have fat back, bacon or pancetta can be a good substitute. For a healthier option, you might swap the Campbell's tomato soup with homemade tomato puree and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Sautéing the onions until golden can enhance the dish's depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the catfish stew over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple side salad or steamed green vegetables can complement the dish well, balancing out the richness of the stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover catfish stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain even temperature. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but be careful not to overcook the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cat Fish Stew contains roughly 665 calories, with 22g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen catfish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen catfish. Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking to allow for even cooking. Fresh or thawed catfish will absorb the flavors of the stew better.
What can I serve with catfish stew?
Catfish stew pairs nicely with rice, but you could also serve it with cornbread or crusty bread. A side of coleslaw or a simple green salad can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
How can I adjust the spice level of the stew?
To increase the spice level, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper during cooking. Alternatively, a splash of hot sauce can be added just before serving for a kick without overwhelming the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).