Dad'S Catfish Stew
A hearty Southern-style catfish stew with rich fish flavors, tender onions, and a savory tomato base, perfect for seafood lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry enough fatback to make 1/2 cup of grease.
- Add the fatback grease to 2 gallons of water in a large soup pot.
- Add the deboned and skinned catfish to the water and cook until done.
- Debone the fish if not done before cooking.
- Add the fish, chopped onions, butter or margarine, milk, and tomato sauce to the fish stock.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook slowly for about 1 1/2 hours, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade fish stock instead of water. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for the milk. You can also swap out catfish for other firm white fish like tilapia or cod. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced bell peppers for extra heat and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A side salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the richness. For a more festive occasion, consider serving it alongside Garlic Skewered Shrimp or Fried Alligator for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the fish to become tough. If needed, add a splash of water or milk to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Catfish Stew contains roughly 1255 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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, frozen catfish can be used in this recipe. Just ensure that it is fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the pot to avoid excess water in the stew.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If the stew is too thick, simply add a little more milk or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to heat through before serving to ensure even mixing.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce when cooking. For a smoky flavor, you could also use smoked paprika. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a customized kick.
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).