Home/Fish/Fresh Catfish
Back to Home
Fresh Catfish
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Fresh Catfish

Pangasius hypophthalmus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Fresh catfish is a popular freshwater fish known for its mild flavor and firm texture. It is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a staple in many cuisines.

Also known as:
Pangasius (Vietnam)Swai (USA)
Scientific NamePangasius hypophthalmus
Region of OriginSoutheast Asia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories105 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total23.0g
Protein
20g(87%)
Fats
3g(13%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2 mg (10%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (5%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamin B122 mcg (33%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 50 IUVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 mcgFolate: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium350 mg (10%)
Zinc0.5 mg (5%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 10 mgManganese: 0 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Some individuals may be allergic to fish. Consult a healthcare provider if you have a known allergy.

How to Prepare & Consume

Fresh catfish can be grilled, fried, baked, or steamed. It is best marinated to enhance its flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose catfish that is firm to the touch and has a mild smell. Avoid fish with a strong odor or discolored flesh.

How to Store

Store fresh catfish in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryHeart health support
Main Applications
Muscle recovery
Heart health
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

How to Consume
GrilledFriedBakedSteamed
Did you know?

"Catfish can be farmed in freshwater ponds, making them a sustainable seafood choice."

Myths vs Realities

MythCatfish is a bottom feeder and is unhealthy.
RealityWhile catfish do feed on the bottom, they are farmed in clean environments and are safe to eat.
MythAll catfish taste muddy.
RealityProperly farmed catfish have a mild flavor and do not taste muddy.
MythCatfish is not a sustainable seafood choice.
RealityFarmed catfish is considered a sustainable seafood option.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Grilled Catfish

This zesty grilled catfish is marinated in fresh herbs and lemon juice, delivering a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Marinate the catfish fillets in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side until flaky. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Catfish Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These spicy catfish tacos are paired with a creamy avocado salsa, making for a deliciously healthy meal that packs a punch.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub the catfish fillets with chili powder, cumin, and salt.
  2. 2. Cook the fillets in a skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Serve the catfish in tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Baked Catfish with Quinoa and Spinach

This wholesome baked catfish dish is served on a bed of quinoa and sautéed spinach, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season catfish with salt and pepper and place on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and spinach until wilted. Serve the catfish over quinoa and spinach.

Catfish Stir-Fry with Vegetables

This vibrant stir-fry features fresh catfish and a colorful mix of vegetables, making it a quick and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot, stir-frying for about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Catfish and Sweet Potato Cakes

These savory catfish and sweet potato cakes are packed with flavor and make for a delightful appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked and flaked catfish
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine catfish, sweet potatoes, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Coconut Curry Catfish

This creamy coconut curry catfish is infused with aromatic spices and served with steamed vegetables for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, combine coconut milk and red curry paste, bringing to a simmer.
  2. 2. Add catfish and mixed vegetables, cooking for about 10 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
  3. 3. Stir in lime juice and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Catfish Salad with Citrus Dressing

This refreshing catfish salad features grilled fillets over mixed greens, drizzled with a zesty citrus dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Grill the catfish fillets until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss salad greens with dressing, top with catfish, orange segments, and almonds before serving.

Catfish and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

This low-carb catfish and cauliflower rice bowl is a nutritious meal option, packed with flavor and texture.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup peas and carrots mix
Instructions
  1. 1. Season catfish with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and grill for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté cauliflower rice with peas and carrots until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the grilled catfish over the cauliflower rice mixture.

Mediterranean Catfish Wrap

This Mediterranean-inspired catfish wrap is filled with fresh veggies and a tangy yogurt sauce, perfect for a healthy lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 2 whole wheat wraps
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season catfish with salt and pepper and grill until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Assemble wraps with catfish, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and yogurt sauce, then roll tightly.

Catfish and Lentil Stew

This hearty catfish and lentil stew is a comforting dish that combines protein-rich lentils with tender catfish in a savory broth.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh catfish fillets
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, and simmer until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Add catfish fillets and cook until they are flaky, about 5 minutes. Serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is catfish healthy to eat?

Yes, catfish is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy choice.

How should I cook catfish?

Catfish can be cooked in various ways, including frying, grilling, and baking.

What is the best way to season catfish?

Common seasonings include lemon, garlic, and Cajun spices.

Can catfish be eaten raw?

It is not recommended to eat catfish raw due to potential parasites.

How do I know if catfish is fresh?

Fresh catfish should have a mild smell and firm flesh.

Is catfish high in mercury?

Catfish generally has lower mercury levels compared to larger fish.

Can I freeze catfish?

Yes, catfish can be frozen for up to six months.

What are the health benefits of eating catfish?

Catfish is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.