When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty and flavorful catfish stew. The rich flavors and tender texture of catfish make it the perfect ingredient for a cozy night in. Whether you’re from the South or just love Southern cuisine, these 19 delicious catfish stew recipes are sure to become new favorites.
From classic Southern-style stews to spicy Creole-inspired dishes and international twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. With ingredients ranging from cayenne pepper and paprika to coconut milk and ginger, you’ll find the perfect combination to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the world of catfish stew, exploring different flavors and techniques to elevate this beloved dish.
Cajun Spiced Catfish Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, featuring tender catfish cooked in a flavorful broth infused with the bold spices of Cajun country.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add catfish, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until fish is lightly browned.
3. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 10-12 minutes, or until catfish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Southern Style Catfish Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. With its rich and flavorful broth, tender catfish, and crunchy vegetables, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove catfish from pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return catfish to pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Catfish Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of catfish with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the catfish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the same pan and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and browned catfish back to the pan. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Creole Catfish Stew
A flavorful and spicy stew that combines the richness of catfish with the bold flavors of Creole cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add catfish pieces, Creole seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and fish stock or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until catfish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Garlic Herb Catfish Stew
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this hearty and aromatic catfish stew, infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, celery, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add catfish pieces, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes and fish stock or water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 15-20 minutes or until catfish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Curry Catfish Stew
This rich and flavorful stew combines the tender flaky texture of catfish with the warm, aromatic spices of coconut curry, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add catfish; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until catfish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Smoky Paprika Catfish Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich taste of catfish with the deep, smoky flavor of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the catfish, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is lightly browned.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Pepper Catfish Stew
This recipe combines the tender flakes of catfish with a bright and citrusy lemon pepper flavor profile, creating a deliciously unique stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken broth)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the catfish fillets, potatoes, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in the fish stock and bring to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra and Catfish Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tender goodness of catfish with the slightly slimy texture of okra, all simmered in a rich and spicy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add catfish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, bell pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add okra, fish stock, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return catfish to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Tomato Catfish Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of Creole tomatoes with the delicate flavor of catfish, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large Creole tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup fish stock or water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the catfish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Add the fish stock or water and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the catfish to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Sweet Corn Catfish Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of corn with the tender flaky goodness of catfish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups frozen sweet corn kernels
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the catfish pieces and cook until they start to flake apart, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the frozen sweet corn kernels, fish broth, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Blackened Catfish Stew
Savor the bold flavors of the Bayou with this hearty and spicy Blackened Catfish Stew, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add catfish and blackening seasoning; cook until blackened, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove catfish from pot; set aside.
4. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Return catfish to pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Catfish Stew
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the rich taste of catfish with the bold spices of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add catfish, jerk seasoning, chicken broth, coconut milk, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ginger Lime Catfish Stew
This refreshing stew is perfect for a light and flavorful meal on a warm day. The combination of ginger, lime juice, and catfish creates a unique and delicious taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup fish stock or water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the catfish pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the lime juice, fish stock or water, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Medley Catfish Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich taste of catfish with a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the catfish pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the catfish to the pan and simmer until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Wine Braised Catfish Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender catfish, all wrapped up in a comforting red wine broth. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add catfish, red wine, fish broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until catfish is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Catfish Stew
Cilantro Lime Catfish Stew Recipe
This refreshing stew combines the bold flavors of catfish with the brightness of lime and cilantro, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the catfish and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the cilantro, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-12 minutes or until the catfish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chili Garlic Catfish Stew
This hearty stew combines the flavors of spicy chili peppers and aromatic garlic with tender catfish, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the catfish pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Stir in chili powder and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, fish broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-12 minutes, or until catfish is cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Classic Southern Catfish Stew
Classic Southern Catfish Stew Recipe
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Warm up with a comforting bowl of Classic Southern Catfish Stew, a traditional favorite that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine catfish, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and paprika.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes, fish broth, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the catfish is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 19 delicious catfish stew recipes that are sure to become comfort food classics. From Cajun Spiced to Jamaican Jerk, and from Southern Style to Red Wine Braised, there’s something for every palate. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, these stews offer a range of options for those looking to spice up their meals or stick with traditional Southern favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or tangy, this collection has got you covered.