Introduction
In many recipes, panga or pangasius can easily replace haddock or cod, which comes in fillet form. Due to its reasonable price, this fish has grown in popularity.
What is a Panga fish?
Pangasius species in the UK are classified as pangasius, river cobblers, basa, or pangasius with a catfish addition.
Panga (Pangasius bocourti) is a catfish belonging to the Pangasiidae family. These fish are indigenous to the Mekong river, located in Southeast Asia. A large international market exists for these fish as food fish. Basa fish, swai, or bocourti are other names they go by in the US and Australia.
Other European markets commonly market these fish under the pangasius or panga name. Pacific dory and patin are different names for panga in Asia.
The characteristics of panga fish are long bodies, small heads, wide mouths, and catfish-like barbels. During their juvenile phase, young panga fish have black lines running along their bodies, while as they mature, they become greyish. In just two months after breeding, they can grow to about 10-12 cm and weigh about 14-15 grams.
A common freshwater species, Pangasius can survive in salt water at temperatures as high as 30°C.
What fish is Panga similar to?
The name panga might suggest it’s related to bass, the fish Canadians fish in lakes and rivers. Despite being a freshwater fish, it isn’t related to bass. There are various types of catfish, but Pangasius bocourti is the Latin name for this one.
Fresh and frozen, panga is primarily available in supermarkets as a more affordable alternative to cod and haddock, two of the most popular white fish.
The rules regarding panga imports are the same as those for other imported foods, as outlined in the UK Trading Standards regulations.
The commercial value of Panga fish
It is also known as the South Asian Catfish in several countries and is sold whole or as a frozen boneless/skinless fillet. They are meticulously prepared using the most advanced technology to preserve the freshness and natural taste of these specially selected, premium-quality fish products.
Its mild taste and soft but firm texture, and its affordability have contributed to the popularity and consumption of panga worldwide. There are a variety of forms of pangasius, but boneless, skinless fillets and portions are the most widely eaten.
There is no connection between this fish, which grows in freshwater farms, and the sole fish, which lives in the sea. Vietnam is the major supplier of Panga fish.
Is Panga fish tasty?
The fish has white flesh and a supple texture with a very mild flavour. Because of its high protein content, this type of fish has an underlying sweetness and a slightly salty taste.
The minimal fat content and affordable price make it a favourite in the UK.
The taste is similar to cod, haddock, or tilapia, but it lacks a distinct flavour.
There are differences in the flavour profile based on where the fish is raised. A panga fish can be found in Vietnam and Thailand with a mild taste, but it is characterized by its fresh taste and nutty flavour in Japan.
Grilled, baked, or pan-fried pangasius fillets are delicious. Breadcrumbs and flour are mixed to form an exterior crust. Mayonnaise is applied to the top before baking to intensify the flavour and prevent the dish from drying.
Furthermore, panga fish can be paired with a tasty sauce once cooked.
It can be enjoyed at any time since it’s mainly sold frozen.
Is Panga fish healthy?
The protein and essential nutrients in fish make it a healthy protein source. Fish like panga are delicious, protein-rich, and low in calories. For those on a low-calorie diet or wishing to lose weight, it is an excellent choice because of its calorie count.
British Fish and Chips often use panga fillet as a substitute. Garlic potatoes, lemongrass, and lime can all be pan-fried with these fillets.
Reduces your risk of heart disease
Heart disease risk is also thought to be lower among people who consume the most fish. Oily fish often provide this benefit due to the omega-3 fatty acids they contain.
Eating white fish as part of a healthy, balanced diet may also have heart-healthy benefits.
Delivers good-quality protein
The protein content of panga is similar to that of other white fish.
As well as growing and repairing your body’s tissues, protein produces essential enzymes for your health.
A low-calorie fish
Considering panga’s low-calorie content, it’s an ideal food for those trying to lose weight.
The consumption of proteins found in fish may also make you feel full longer than that found in meat. As compared to chicken and beef, fish protein increased satiety the most.
Buying Panga fish
Knowing what to look for when buying frozen fresh basa fish is essential.
Firstly, you need to pay attention to how the panga fish’s skin looks and smells. It’s best to avoid purchasing any fish with unpleasant odours or slimy texture.
Examine the eyes closely for signs of decay and if they have become cloudy. You should be able to touch the flesh without it being sticky or hard to touch. Ideally, the colour should appear authentic, with subtle variations and a faint glow, indicating freshness.
Look for the best before date on the frozen food compartment or talk to your fishmonger for freshness assurance.
Asian seafood can be found at your local Asian supermarket, among other items.
Storing Panga fish
It would help if you froze Panga fish to keep them fresh. Keeping it frozen for up to six months won’t affect its quality or taste. Additionally, the temperature decreases the growth of bacteria, which limits contamination.
Wrap the panga fish meat securely in plastic wrap and tie it up if you store it outside the freezer. Ensure that you clearly label the box before you pull it out of storage, so you know what’s inside.
Is Panga fish safe to eat?
Generally speaking, no harmful substances can be found in imported stock Panga. Several studies have concluded that the intake of pangasius on the European market is safe.
However, if you want to reduce your chances of food poisoning, cook panga correctly and avoid eating raw or undercooked panga.
Cooking with Panga
Common methods
Purchasing panga fish is an ideal choice if you are bored with cod but still prefer delicate, white fish. The tender fillets can be prepared in a wide range of ways and flavoured easily.
Grill the fillets with lemon and fresh herbs and place them in foil pouches. Serve the fillets with lots of onions and a spicy sauce, and finish them in the oven for a fiery meal.
You can pan-fry the fillets until they are golden brown by coating them in cornmeal.
Pangasius comes in fresh and frozen forms, which are used in various dishes in restaurants. When used in stews or curries, it tastes delicious, along with any recipe using Oriental flavours.
Perfect side dishes
Roasted broccoli
Lemon pairs beautifully with panga fish dinners, but throw some lemon juice in with your broccoli accompaniment, which is delicious.
After that, sprinkle a good amount of parmesan cheese over your broccoli and roast it for at least 20 minutes in the oven.
Rice pilaf
Panga fish goes well with rice pilaf because it’s not overly seasoned, so you get the flavour without being overwhelmed.
Despite the lighter taste of this meal, adding a side dish still makes it more filling.
When combined with panga fillet, this dish becomes a weekly classic. You will enjoy this dish on chilly evenings as it will keep you warm.
Roasted Greek potatoes
A side like roasted Greek potatoes is ideal as a side dish for Panga fish, as fish fills you up less than other protein sources.
Almost any fish can be paired well with this side dish due to its flavorful, fresh taste.
It takes little time to prepare these, so getting them cooked in the oven is almost effortless.
Drink pairing
Orange lime margarita
Make your margarita stand out by mixing it with orange liqueur. Your guests will be raving about it.
Panga fillet dishes go well with this drink. To avoid frequent trips to the blender, prepare everything at once.
Medium textured wine
Panga fish pairs well with Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, and Argentinian Malbec.
Popular Panga fish recipes
Vietnamese fresh spring rolls
The first bite of this delicious mixture of vegetables, prawns, and pangasius will have you hooked.
Pangasius in tomato sauce
Italian cuisine is the perfect match for Pangasius. The perfect setting for a pangasius fillet would be immersed in fresh Italian spices and tomato sauce.
Grilled Panga fish with mango salsa
This fish dish is a great summer dish to try. It’s perfect on the grill or the barbeque, any time of the year! This dish is best served with pangasius.
Sustainability of Panga fish
Fish like pangasius are ecologically sustainable. The reason for that is that this farmed fish has a low feed conversion rate. Additionally, pangasius products sold in major European supermarkets originate almost entirely from sustainable sources, considered environmentally friendly, local, and fair trade.
Certified ASC production ensures sustainable production. ASC’s label on the package makes it easy to recognize by the public.
