Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A savory smoked catfish spread blended with garlic, chili, and fresh herbs, perfect for crackers or as a sandwich filling. This african-inspired snacks ready in about 10 minutes blends smoked catfish fillets (skin removed), cream cheese (softened), fresh garlic cloves (minced) into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Serves 4 African cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine 8 ounces smoked catfish fillets (skin removed), 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 small finely chopped fresh red chili. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Pulse again to combine evenly.
  3. Step 3: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1 tablespoon olive oil until the spread is creamy and well blended.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the spread to a serving bowl and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with crackers or sliced bread.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Smoked Catfish Spread with Garlic and Chili?

African snacks like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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