Catfish, or Pangasius, is a popular freshwater fish in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, known for its sweet and firm flesh. Let’s explore this unique fish and the delicious dishes it offers!
1 What is Catfish?
Catfish, also known as Pangasius, is a species of catfish family, commonly found in freshwater or brackish water in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. In Vietnam, they are mostly found in the Mekong Delta region, especially in Bac Lieu province.
Catfish, also known as Pangasius
This fish has a long and flat body with a yellowish hue, a small head, and four whiskers like a catfish. Interestingly, this species uses venom for self-defense, and a sting can cause pain for 1-3 days.
Catfish are omnivorous, feeding on insects and crustaceans
Catfish are omnivorous, with a diet consisting of insects and crustaceans. Their breeding season usually falls between May and August, during which they lay eggs. This period coincides with the end of the flood season in the Mekong Delta, making it an abundant time for catfish fishing.
2 Common Types of Catfish
Silver Catfish
Silver Catfish, also known as Mouse Catfish
Silver catfish, or Pseudomystus siamensis, has a round front body and a flat rear, a small head with four pairs of whiskers, oval eyes, and a slightly blunt mouth. Its body is yellowish with several brown horizontal stripes.
Silver catfish are commonly found in the rivers of the Mekong Delta region, and their meat is renowned for its delicious, non-fishy taste. They are often used in sour soup or braised dishes.
Egg Catfish
Egg Catfish, named for their high egg content
Egg catfish, as the name suggests, are filled with eggs, making them extremely tasty and fatty. Externally, they resemble regular catfish, but they have a distinct dark line running from head to tail.
Due to their high egg content, egg catfish are quite popular. They are commonly used in braised dishes or sour soup, resulting in a delicious meal.
White Catfish
White Catfish, scientifically known as Mystus gulio
White catfish, or Mystus gulio, is a species of catfish that can grow up to 45cm in length, with an average size of around 15cm. Their body is silvery-white, and they tend to live in schools. They are found in Asian and Southeast Asian waters.
Paper Catfish
Paper Catfish, named for their thin, paper-like appearance
Paper catfish have an average length of 20 to 30cm, with a flat body that appears thin like paper. They have a light yellowish body, a white-gray back and head, a small head, large eyes, and oval-shaped mouth. Their tail, dorsal, and anal fins are dark grayish-black.
This species is widely distributed in Southeast Asian waters, particularly in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam.
Striped Catfish
Striped Catfish, also known as Buffalo Catfish
Striped catfish, or Mystus vittatus, has an average length of 20cm, a silver-gray body, and stripes of blue, white, or brown running from the gills to the tail. Their colorful and dazzling appearance makes them a popular choice for aquariums.
This species can thrive in both freshwater and brackish environments and is found across Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia, including Vietnam.
3 Delicious and Simple Dishes with Catfish
Braised Catfish with Pepper or Cinnamon
Braised Catfish with Pepper or Cinnamon
Braising catfish with pepper or cinnamon is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to prepare this fish. The fragrant and spicy flavors of pepper or cinnamon enhance the natural sweetness of the catfish, making it a perfect dish to enjoy with rice.
When braised with cinnamon, the salty and spicy flavors of the dish balance the richness of the catfish, creating a delightful combination with white rice or porridge.
Catfish Braised in Clay Pot
Catfish Braised in Clay Pot, a simple yet flavorful dish
During the rainy season in the Mekong Delta, catfish braised in a clay pot is a comforting and savory dish. It can be enjoyed with rice or porridge, or simply used as a dip for vegetables. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a beloved part of family meals.
Sour Soup with Silver Catfish and So Dua Vine
Sour Soup with Silver Catfish and So Dua Vine, a flavorful and healthy dish
This sour soup is a popular way to prepare silver catfish. The tangy soup, combined with the sweet and fatty meat of the catfish and the refreshing taste of So Dua vine, creates a delightful and nourishing meal that is beloved by many in the Mekong Delta region.
Above are some interesting facts about catfish and delicious dishes made from this versatile fish. We hope you found this article informative and inspiring!
Selecting a Suitable Catfish for Delicious Meals
If you’re interested in creating delicious catfish dishes but don’t know the best cooking methods, then this article is for you! Learn the techniques to select the perfect catfish for your recipes and how to make the most flavorful and mouthwatering meals.
Grilling Fish in the Oven: 3 Methods to Try
Bringing a little comfort and joy during this raining season, XANH Electronics is here to show you the simplest ways to whip up a delectable grilled fish with a side of steaming hot rice to enjoy in the cool atmosphere. Let’s get cooking!
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Eating mercury-contaminated fish not only lacks nutrition but also poses great risks to your health and loved ones.
