Fontenot Fish
Fontenot Fish is a flavorful Louisiana-style dish featuring tender catfish simmered in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy bold, southern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the catfish in a large pot.
- Add red pepper, salt, flour, tomato sauce, shortening, chopped garlic, and water to the pot.
- Cook for 30 minutes, avoiding unnecessary stirring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. If catfish isn't available, tilapia or cod can serve as great substitutes. Make sure to chop the garlic finely for even distribution of flavor. Avoid overcooking the fish to keep it tender and flaky, and remember to let it rest briefly after cooking for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fontenot Fish over a bed of rice or alongside cornbread for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish. For an added kick, consider serving it with a side of hot sauce. This dish also complements well with other seafood recipes, making it a versatile choice for a family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Fontenot Fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fontenot Fish contains roughly 99 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing can be done overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag under cold running water. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the fish's texture.
What can I serve with Fontenot Fish?
Fontenot Fish pairs well with sides like rice, coleslaw, or cornbread. You can also serve it with sautéed greens or a fresh garden salad to add a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, consider topping it with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, simply decrease the amount of red pepper used in the recipe. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat. Balancing flavors with additional tomato sauce can help mellow out the dish as well.
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).