Basa, or pangasius, is a type of catfish. The body of a basa fish is stout and heavy. The rounded head is broader than it is long, the blunt snout having a white band on its muzzle. Basa fish are known to be from large rivers, in rapids and in deep, slower reaches. They also will enter flooded forests. They feed on plants and spawn at the onset of the rainy season. Consumers in the United States were introduced to the fish in 1994, after the trade embargo with Vietnam was finally lifted. Though it took some time for the basa fish to gain a following in the United States, today it has become a serious concern of domestic catfish producers. It is cheaper than domestic catfish, with no noticeable decrease in quality. This has caused some large restaurants and resorts to switch to serving the basa fish, or something that resembles the fish.

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Cooking & Handling

Naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, Basa is an excellent source of lean protein. It provides omega 3 fatty acids which are known offer significant health benefits.

Try basa dishes with flavors such as celery, cornmeal, garlic, green chiles, lemon, olive oil, onion, paprika, pecan, red pepper, scallion, sesame, soy sauce, thyme, tomato and vinegar.

Cooking Methods
Bake, Broil, Fry, Sauté

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Global Supply

vietnam

Seasonal Availability
Available year-round.