Vietnam Pangasius Fillet: The Truth Behind the Dory Fish Name
In the world of seafood, names can be as intriguing as the fish themselves. One such name that has captured the attention of consumers and chefs worldwide is "Dory fish," commonly used to market the Vietnam Pangasius fillet. This misnomer has sparked curiosity and confusion, leading many to wonder about the true identity of this versatile fish and the story behind its name
The Real Identity: Vietnam Pangasius Fillet
Pangasius, specifically Pangasius hypophthalmus, also known as the iridescent shark or striped catfish, is a freshwater fish native to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. The fish is highly regarded for its mild flavor, tender texture, and affordability, making it a staple in both Vietnamese and international cuisines
Appearance and Texture: Pangasius fillets are characterized by their white flesh, delicate flakiness, and subtle taste, which allows them to easily absorb flavors from seasonings and sauces
Nutritional Benefits: Rich in protein, low in fat, and containing essential omega-3 fatty acids, Pangasius is a healthy choice for consumers looking to incorporate more seafood into their diets
The Origin of the "Dory" Name
The use of the name "Dory fish" for Pangasius fillets emerged as a marketing strategy to increase its appeal in Western markets. The name "Dory" evokes images of premium white fish such as John Dory, a well-known and expensive species, despite being unrelated to Pangasius
Marketing Strategy: By adopting the name "Dory," seafood marketers aimed to present Pangasius as a high-quality fish that could compete with more familiar white fish varieties. This strategy proved effective, as the name quickly gained traction, helping to boost the fish's popularity
Consumer Confusion: While the name "Dory" helped increase sales, it also led to confusion among consumers who were unaware of the true nature of Pangasius. This confusion was exacerbated by the appearance of various names like "Basa," "Swai," and "Cream Dory," further blurring the lines between different fish species
