Santee Catfish Stew
Santee Catfish Stew offers a hearty, flavorful dish with tender fish, smoky salt pork, and rich tomato broth, perfect for comfort food lovers and seafood enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the salt pork in a large pot.
- Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Add the catfish and onions to the water and boil for 30 minutes.
- Remove the bones from the fish and return the fish to the water.
- Add the diced potatoes, can of tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer the stew for 1 hour until flavors meld and potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some fresh herbs like thyme while simmering. If catfish is unavailable, substitute with tilapia or any firm white fish. You can also use chicken broth instead of water for extra depth. Adjust the Worcestershire sauce to taste for a bolder flavor profile, especially if you're a fan of dishes like Seasoned Shrimp With Noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the savory broth. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as a simple green salad or even a Tuna Tomato Combo for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Santee Catfish Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the stew thickens, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Santee Catfish Stew contains roughly 539 calories, with 30g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1276mg per serving (55% 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. Thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and texture. Just be mindful that it may release more water during cooking, so adjust the amount of water you add if needed.
What can I use if I don't have salt pork?
If salt pork isn't available, you can substitute it with bacon or smoked turkey for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, use olive oil for a lighter option, but consider adding a bit more salt to compensate for the lack of saltiness.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat to the stew, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to adjust the heat to their liking.
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).