Sheepshead soup, a hearty fish stew
Sheepshead soup is a hearty, savory fish stew featuring the firm, sweet-flavored sheepshead fish, often simmered with vegetables like potatoes, onions, celery, and tomatoes in a flavorful broth. It's a classic coastal dish, particularly popular in the Gulf Coast region of the United States, especially around Louisiana and Texas.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This stew is high in protein from the fish and moderate in fat, depending on the cooking method, with a relatively low carbohydrate content. It's an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and key minerals like selenium and phosphorus.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Selenium | 45 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Potassium | 520 mg |
| Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) | 0.8 g |
Per 1.5 cups (360 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, sheepshead is often called the 'convict fish' due to its distinctive, human-like teeth used for crushing shellfish, which adds a unique story to the dish. Nutritionally, it's a powerhouse for heart-healthy fats and muscle-building protein without excessive calories.
