18 Spicy Catfish Stew Recipes Delight

Dive into the heartwarming world of comfort food with our roundup of 18 Spicy Catfish Stew Recipes Delight! Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving something with a kick, these recipes promise to spice up your dinner routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, there’s a bowl of goodness here with your name on it. Let’s get cooking!

Cajun Catfish Stew

Dive into the heart of Southern cooking with this Cajun Catfish Stew, a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large onion, 1 green bell pepper, and 2 celery stalks, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gently add the catfish chunks to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in 2 tbsp fresh parsley before serving.

This stew stands out with its perfect balance of heat and heartiness, making it a comforting bowl that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of hot sauce or a sprinkle of additional cayenne pepper.

Southern Style Catfish Stew

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Southern Style Catfish Stew to warm you up from the inside out. This dish is a comforting blend of tender catfish and robust flavors that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Add the catfish pieces to the pot, gently stirring to submerge them in the liquid. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the delicate balance of spices that enhance the catfish without overpowering it, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.

Tip: For an extra touch of Southern charm, serve this stew with a side of cornbread to soak up all the delicious broth.

Creole Catfish Stew

Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with this Creole Catfish Stew, a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty and full of spice.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Gently add the catfish chunks to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving over cooked white rice.

This stew stands out with its perfect balance of heat and smokiness, thanks to the Creole seasoning and smoked paprika, making every spoonful a delight.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to your bowl before serving.

Tomato Based Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Tomato Based Catfish Stew, a comforting dish that brings a little Southern charm to your table.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and green bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add catfish chunks to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoky paprika and cayenne give this stew a subtle kick, while the catfish stays tender and moist, making every spoonful a delight.

Tip: Serve over a bed of steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Okra and Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Okra and Catfish Stew, a Southern classic that combines tender catfish with the unique texture of okra in a rich, flavorful broth.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cups okra, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in okra and cook for another 5 minutes, until it starts to soften.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Gently add catfish pieces to the pot, along with lemon juice. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the okra’s natural thickening power, creating a silky broth that perfectly coats each bite of tender catfish.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a dash of hot sauce on the side.

Spicy Thai Catfish Stew

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this Spicy Thai Catfish Stew, a dish that balances heat, sweetness, and tanginess in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup bamboo shoots, drained
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the red bell pepper and bamboo shoots, cooking for another 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the red curry paste to the pot, stirring well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the catfish pieces to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice and fresh basil leaves.

The magic of this stew lies in the harmony of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes, all enveloped in the creamy richness of coconut milk.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a sliced Thai chili with the red bell pepper.

Garlic Butter Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Catfish Stew, a dish that combines the heartiness of catfish with the aromatic bliss of garlic butter.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
2. Add catfish chunks to the pot. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring gently to avoid breaking the fish.
3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let stew for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the tender catfish pieces swimming in a garlicky, buttery broth that’s just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more.

Tip: Serve this stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

Herbed Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Herbed Catfish Stew, a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 diced green bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 can diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the catfish chunks to the pot. Cover and simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the tender catfish and the vibrant herb-infused broth that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, serve this stew over a bed of steamed rice or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Lemon Grass Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this vibrant Lemon Grass Catfish Stew, a dish that brings a refreshing twist to your dinner routine with its aromatic lemongrass and tender catfish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add lemongrass, coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Add catfish chunks and cherry tomatoes. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Stir in cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the stew.

The magic of this stew lies in the lemongrass, which imparts a bright, citrusy depth that perfectly complements the richness of the coconut milk and the delicate catfish.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the lemongrass in a dry pan before adding it to the stew.

Coconut Milk Catfish Stew

Dive into the creamy, aromatic world of this Coconut Milk Catfish Stew, a dish that brings the warmth of the tropics to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup fish or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Add coconut milk, broth, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gently add catfish chunks to the pot. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
5. Stir in fresh cilantro right before serving. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the stew.

The magic of this stew lies in the smoky paprika and cumin mingling with the creamy coconut milk, creating a broth that’s irresistibly rich yet light. Perfect for when you crave something comforting but exotic.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin and smoked paprika in the pot before adding the liquids.

Curry Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Curry Catfish Stew, a dish that brings a delightful blend of spices and tender fish to your table.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
4. Gently add catfish chunks to the pot. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture that perfectly balances the heat from the spices.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Smoked Catfish Stew

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of smoked catfish stew, with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s a dish that brings warmth to any table, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked catfish, flaked
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add the flaked smoked catfish to the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Remove the bay leaves, then stir in the heavy cream and fresh parsley. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

The smoked catfish adds a depth of flavor that’s unmatched, making this stew a standout dish that’s both rustic and refined.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of liquid smoke when you add the catfish.

Vegetable Loaded Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Vegetable Loaded Catfish Stew, a comforting bowl that’s brimming with flavors and textures to satisfy any craving.

Ingredients

• 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup frozen okra
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add catfish chunks and frozen okra. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove bay leaves. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the tender catfish paired with the slight crunch of okra, creating a delightful contrast in every spoonful.

Tip: For an extra kick, adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.

Pepper Hot Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Pepper Hot Catfish Stew, a dish that brings a little Southern comfort to your table with its spicy kick and tender fish.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add catfish chunks and lemon juice to the pot. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Remove bay leaves. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the balance of heat from the cayenne and the freshness of the lemon juice, creating a depth of flavor that’s both bold and refreshing.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, serve this stew over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Onion Tomato Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Onion Tomato Catfish Stew, a comforting dish that brings together the richness of catfish with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes and onions.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 cups fish or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
3. Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the catfish chunks, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
4. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the delicate balance of spices that enhance the catfish without overpowering it, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the stew sit for 10 minutes off the heat before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ginger Infused Catfish Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this Ginger Infused Catfish Stew, a comforting dish that blends the bold flavors of ginger with the delicate taste of catfish.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups fish stock
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, fish stock, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the catfish chunks to the pot, gently stirring to combine. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.

The ginger’s warmth perfectly complements the catfish’s mildness, creating a stew that’s both invigorating and soothing.

Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper.

Basil Leaf Catfish Stew

Dive into the comforting flavors of the South with this Basil Leaf Catfish Stew, a dish that marries the freshness of basil with the rich, tender goodness of catfish.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 4 cups fish or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add the catfish chunks and chopped basil to the pot. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

The basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the catfish, making this stew a standout dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch more cayenne pepper or serve with a side of hot sauce.

Chili Catfish Stew

Dive into the heartwarming flavors of the South with this Chili Catfish Stew, a dish that combines spicy, smoky, and savory notes in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs catfish fillets, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gently add catfish chunks to the pot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this stew lies in the smoky depth from the paprika, perfectly complementing the tender catfish. Serve it with a side of cornbread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 Spicy Catfish Stew Recipes has inspired your next kitchen adventure! Each recipe offers a unique twist on this comforting dish, perfect for any home cook looking to spice up their meal rotation. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to keep these delicious ideas handy. Happy cooking!