Southern Fried Gaspergou

Southern Fried Gaspergou is a classic Louisiana Creole and Cajun dish featuring the freshwater gaspergou fish (also known as bowfin or choupique), which is filleted, seasoned, and pan-fried to a golden, crispy finish. The fish is typically coated in a seasoned cornmeal or flour dredge before frying, and it's often served with traditional sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, or fries. This dish is a staple in the bayous and river regions of the American South, particularly in Louisiana.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein and fat due to the fried preparation, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the cornmeal coating. It provides a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie ballpark of 350-450 kcal per serving.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	380 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	520 mg
Selenium	36 mcg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Niacin (B3)	4.2 mg
Vitamin B12	1.8 mcg
Potassium	380 mg
Magnesium	35 mg
Zinc	1.2 mg
Iron	1.1 mg

Per 1 fillet (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Gaspergou is culturally significant as a 'poor man's fish' in Cajun cuisine, historically prized for its firm texture and ability to absorb bold flavors. Nutritionally, despite being fried, the fish itself is lean and nutrient-dense, making it a more protein-rich alternative to many other fried foods.