Catfish Couvillion Recipe Easy and Delicious Southern Style

Catfish Couvillion is a classic Southern dish that beautifully marries the flavors of tender catfish with a rich, savory sauce made from a blend of spices, peppers, and onions. Originating from Louisiana, this dish is a staple at family gatherings and festive occasions, cherished for its comforting taste and hearty texture.

It’s a perfect way to enjoy catfish beyond the usual fried or blackened preparations. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying Southern cuisine for the first time, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that’s both satisfying and full of soul.

With its layers of flavor and straightforward preparation, Catfish Couvillion is a fantastic dish to add to your recipe collection. It pairs wonderfully with simple sides and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you.

Dive into this recipe and bring a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Catfish Couvillion stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, with a harmonious blend of spices, tangy tomato sauce, and the delicate sweetness of catfish.

The sauce is thick and luscious, perfect for spooning over rice or crusty bread.

Second, the recipe is quite versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your palate or substitute ingredients based on what’s available.

It’s also a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Lastly, it’s a wonderful way to introduce yourself or your family to authentic Southern cooking, showcasing traditional flavors with an easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup fish or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Serving dishes
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Prepare the catfish: Rinse the catfish pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and about half of the Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, remaining Cajun seasoning, and bay leaf. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the sauce base: Stir in the tomato paste and tomato sauce, mixing well with the vegetables. Slowly pour in the broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk this roux into the simmering sauce to thicken it. Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the catfish: Gently fold the seasoned catfish pieces into the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Final seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve: Spoon the catfish couvillion over hot cooked white rice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh catfish fillets and homemade broth if possible. If fresh catfish is unavailable, frozen fillets work well too—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños along with the bell peppers.

You can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce base.

To vary the dish, swap the catfish for another firm white fish such as tilapia or cod. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the fish used.

If you love Southern cuisine, you might also enjoy these recipes:

• Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide
• Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy
• Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Catfish Couvillion is traditionally served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.

Complement the dish with classic Southern sides such as collard greens, fried okra, or a fresh garden salad. Cornbread or crusty French bread also pairs wonderfully, helping you savor every bit of the flavorful sauce.

For a complete meal, consider a light dessert like a fruit cobbler or a simple lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Conclusion

Catfish Couvillion is a true Southern gem that offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures in every bite. This dish is not just a meal but a celebration of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, the warm, comforting taste of this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor, Catfish Couvillion brings a touch of Southern hospitality to any dining table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spice levels or ingredients, making it your own.

And while you’re here, explore other delicious recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more culinary inspiration!

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