subject: Catfish Or Swai Fish [print this page] Do you prefer catfish or Swai fish? Are you intent on a specific flavor? Do you follow politics? All of these questions refer back to the original question: Catfish or Swai fish. This debate has been ongoing for the past decade in the United States. The question revolves around the American catfish known as Channel Catfish, and Swai fish which is a catfish from Vietnam. A lot of people don't know what swai fish is. So what is swai fish? Swai fish are a fresh water fish found in the Mekong River basin of Southeast Asia as well as the Chao Phraya river system. Swai has also been introduced into other river basins in the region. This fish is very low in calories, high in protein and rich in omega-3's. It is a very healthy source of protein. Stores may refer to Swai as Tra, Iridescent Shark, Shark Catfish Striped catfish and if you live near a Trader Joe's, you will see it there referred to as Striper. Some places incorrectly call Swai, Basa or Panga.
Back to the catfish, channel catfish are US grown so purchasing it supports US catfish farmers. On the other hand, Swai fish is available at a more economical price point. The quality of catfish depends on how clean the waters are from where its fished and feeding. When buying catfish, try to avoid "specials," which may feature a low quality product. Know and trust your seafood sources, it will make a difference to your tastebuds and your health when you sit down to eat it.
With the exception of diehard channel catfish lovers, most people prefer the flavor of Swai fish over American catfish. This has been proven in blind tastings, that swai fish taste is due to the fact that Swai fish flavor is milder and sweeter than channel catfish. Swai are moist, sweet and mild with beige colored flesh which turns white after cooking. It is coarser and grainier in texture than Basa, which is similar and why I mentioned that some places incorrectly call Swai, Basa. These are two different fish.
Ultimately there is no right or wrong answer to the question: catfish or swai fish? It simply depends upon your priorities - flavor and/or price or your perspective - American or foreign. Are you pro-American regardless of all other issues? Then buy American channel catfish. Is taste more important to you and you don't care about politics? Then try both fish and eat the one which satisfies you the most. If cost is the most important factor to you than Swai fish is probably going to be your best bet.
