Ingredients and Weight:
- Catfish: 500 grams (about 1 pound)
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- All-Purpose Flour: 50 grams (about 1/2 cup)
- Chicken Broth: 500 milliliters (about 2 cups)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Hot Sauce (optional): 1-2 tablespoons
- Creamy Style Milk: 250 milliliters (about 1 cup)
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley): for garnish
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the catfish pieces and cook until slightly golden brown on both sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Saute until the vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Continue cooking for a minute or two.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked catfish back into the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using).
- Stir in the creamy style milk and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 400-500 calories (depending on additional ingredients)
- Fat: 20-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
- Protein: 25-35 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Spicy yet creamy, with a rich flavor from the catfish and herbs.
- Thick and hearty, perfect for colder weather or as a comforting meal.
User Comments:
- "The catfish was cooked to perfection, very tender and flavorful."
- "The addition of hot sauce gave it a nice kick, really made this dish stand out."
- "Great dish for a chilly evening, very comforting."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure catfish is fresh and of good quality for best results.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce according to preference.
- For a smoother texture, use a blender or immersion blender to puree a portion of the chowder before serving.