Shuifu Yellow Catfish

Shuifu Yellow Catfish

　　Yellow catfish are native fish found in the local river waters. They are small in size, bright yellow all over, and swim in groups of three to five in the Min River. When cooked, their flavor is extraordinarily fresh, and the broth is exceptionally delicious. Typically around 10 centimeters in length, these fish are scaleless and at first glance resemble the common loach seen in northern China. A closer look, however, shows they are also similar to the rare goby fish seldom seen in Tianjin in recent years, with yellowish bellies that are smooth and shiny.

The preparation of this fish is different from the northern method of scaling and deep-frying. Instead, the fish are cleaned and gutted, then directly simmered over high heat. In just moments, the rolling broth begins to release its rich aroma, filling the air with fragrance. The fish meat is tender, white, and delicate, with tiny bones that can be swallowed whole. The spicy, numbing, and warming broth stimulates the appetite, making it easy to devour seven or eight pieces in one go, leaving one feeling completely satisfied. Finally, a spoonful of the non-spicy clear broth is sipped slowly to savor the mild-tasting yellow catfish, evoking a wonderfully carefree sensation.