Add bacon to a stewpot over medium heat and cook until rendered and crisp. Then add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic, and continue to cook until softened, about 5-10 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, the next 6 ingredients, and 1½ cups of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then add a few pieces of catfish and cover.
Ladle out the stew into a bowl. Serve with saltine crackers and hot sauce. Catfish stew is a hearty and filling stew that combines Catfish fillets, potatoes, tomatoes, and bacon. It originated in South Carolina and is loved by many in this local region.
This African fish stew is perfect with cauliflower rice but you can eat it with any dish that calls for a stew. Adjust the spices and make sure it is to your liking before adding the fish. After adding the fish, only stir very gently and as little as possible, so the fish does not break apart.