What’s the Best Fish for Nigerian Stew: Titus, Panla, or Catfish?

Quick Answer: Nigerians love all three, but Titus (mackerel) is the classic go-to for rich, flavorful stew. Panla (stockfish) gives a traditional taste, while catfish adds that fresh, juicy bite especially in pepper soup and fresh stews.

 

Let's Break it Down

Titus (Mackerel)

Let’s start with Titus. For many of us, this is the classic. Fried Titus inside tomato stew and served with rice? That’s a childhood memory right there. The fish is oily, meaty, and holds its shape even after frying. Abroad, whenever Nigerians find Titus in African stores, it goes straight into the basket.

Best For: Classic Nigerian tomato stew

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 with rice, yam, or beans.

Also Read: 20 Foods Every Nigerian Abroad Misses (And Where to Find Them)

 

Panla (Hake Fish)

Panla is in a class of its own. Nigerians love it for the distinctive, smoky flavor it brings. Once soaked and softened, Panla adds that unforgettable umami depth to stews, okra soup, and sauces. Apart from the taste, it’s also protein-packed and rich in omega-3s, making it a healthy addition to meals.

For many Nigerians abroad, just the aroma of Panla cooking in palm oil stew is enough to transport them straight home.

Perfect for: Tomato stews, okra soup, ogbono, and egusi.

Also Read: 3 Simple Steps to Get Your NIN Sorted from the US

 

Catfish

Now, catfish is in a league of its own. Fresh, tender, and juicy. The way it absorbs pepper and spice makes it perfect for pepper soup and light tomato stews. The only issue? It breaks apart quickly, so you need to handle it with care. Still, one taste of catfish stew, and you’ll understand why it has die-hard fans.

Best For: Catfish pepper soup, light tomato stew with yam or plantain.

So, Which One Wins?

Honestly? It depends on your mood. Titus is the all-rounder, Panla brings that deep traditional flavor, and catfish gives you fresh juiciness. Nigerians don’t pick one forever; we rotate depending on the dish and occasion.

Also Read: How to Renew Your Nigerian Passport in the U.S. (2025 Guide)

 

Rounding Off

The good news for Nigerians abroad is simple: you don’t have to miss out. At My Sasun African Market, we stock Titus, Panla, and even fresh catfish. Whatever swallow or soup you love, whether it’s pounded yam with egusi, amala with ewedu, or pepper soup on a cold night;the ingredients are right here.

Stepping into our store feels like stepping into Agege Market or Yaba in Lagos. The sights, the smells, the ingredients, it’s all here. From palm oil to egusi, from garri to moi moi leaves, from suya spice to Gala and Lacasera, we bring Nigeria closer to you.

So what are you making?  Stew for Sunday rice, Abacha with dried Panla, or a hot pot of pepper soup? You don’t have to compromise. Almost everything you need to prepare a proper Nigerian meal is available right here, at affordable prices.

And here’s the best part: we deliver everywhere. USA, where are you? Any state, we’ll deliver. Canada, we’ve got you too. No matter where you live, home should always taste like home. We've got you!