Pangasius

2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29

Pangasius / Pangasius / is a genus of freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae. It is widespread and bred in many places, mostly because of the fish fillets that are produced. Pangasius is among the most purchased fish in Bulgaria, as the price of fish is relatively low and therefore more affordable for domestic consumers.

The younger and smaller members of the genus are bred as aquarium fish. Adults of Pangasius reach more remarkable sizes. Their body length can reach 1.5 meters and weigh more than 50 kilograms.

The body of the pangasius is painted in silver, the color of the abdomen is lighter, and darker shades are present on the back. Pangasius also features a horizontal mouth, flat head and black eyes. Two main varieties of pangasius are known. These are Pangasius Hypophthalmus and Pangasius bocourti.

Growing pangasius

Pangasius originates from the waters of the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers. Gradually, the local population began to raise fish for commercial purposes. Thus, in the nineties of the twentieth century, Vietnam began to export large quantities of this species to the world market. At the same time, the demand for pangasius is growing. The fish manages to enter the industry quickly due to its unpretentiousness. It is relatively easy to grow, while gaining speed.

It turns out that in just six months her weight already amounts to two kilograms, which makes it suitable for culinary use. The main thing about fish is that it is not pretentious to its menu, and besides, it does not need a lot of oxygen. Most of the fish are fed bananas, rice and other products. In fact, pangasius fish tend to eat everything. When the fish gain enough, they are filleted in factories and then exported worldwide.

The increased pace of production of pangasius become the cause of some concerns. That is why an association called the Pangasius Aquaculture Dialogue was founded eight years ago. Thanks to it, standards are imposed in the sector, and the issues of pangasius consumers are also taken into account.

Pangasius in cooking

Until a few years ago pangasius it was not very popular in the home market, but lately it has become more common. It is believed that this species belongs to the white fish. The flesh of the fish is white, tender, tender. Its positive quality is that it lacks the characteristic odor of most species. In retail chains, pangasius can be found in cut form. The fillets are offered frozen and completely cleaned. This makes them preferred by the hosts, for whom this process is unpleasant and annoying.

When you buy pangasius, it is enough just to defrost it. To do this, you need to put the fish in the refrigerator for several hours. Then you can clean the fillets from the remaining pieces of ice and proceed to their processing. Some housewives drain the fillets, as they often release a lot of water. Pangasius can be used in various recipes, but is best suited for frying and baking. The fish is not very suitable for barbecue, as the fillets are relatively thin.

Otherwise, they have a delicate and unobtrusive taste, which can be complemented by various spices. For example, you can enrich it by using black pepper, thyme, nutmeg, parsley, mint, devesil, dill and more. Combining fish with garlic and lemon is also a good option. Experienced chefs allow themselves to add more white wine and soy sauce.

We offer you a recipe with pangasiuswhich is executed in zero time.

Necessary products: 3-4 pangasius fillets, 4 pickles, 50 grams of black olives, 1 tomato, 200 grams of spinach, 3 cloves garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, basil, dill, parsley, lemon juice.

Method of preparation: Allow the fish to thaw and drain. If the fillets are large, cut them into two pieces. Then place in a greased pan and cover with all the spices and chopped pickles, olives, tomatoes and spinach. The dish is baked at 200 degrees for about 35-40 minutes.

Benefits of pangasius

The meat of pangasius is a source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. It also contains sodium, magnesium, iron, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and more. It is useful for people who have problems with the cardiovascular system. It is also recommended for problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

Damage from pangasius

There are conflicting opinions about this type of fish. According to Pangasius' fiercest enemies, it should not be consumed for a number of reasons. According to some experts, this is the dirtiest fish in the world, as the waters of the Mekong River are polluted with waste and poisonous substances.

Experts also insist that fish farmed for industrial purposes receive hormones, thanks to which they are able to grow in a much shorter time. According to them, the consumption of pangasius, in addition to not being very useful, can be very harmful to the human body.