Fish is a bounty of nature. It is available throughout the year. The oceans and lakes teem with fish, and no area across the globe can ignore the delicate yet delicious fish meat as a part of a wholesome meal. However, trying to find the best fish to eat can be a challenge, more so because of the enormous variety available.
We can categorise fish, as food, into two distinct varieties. The sea fish, which thrives in saline water, and the freshwater fish, which can be found in huge quantities from rivers, lakes, and ponds. Nowadays, people construct artificial ponds to breed fish specifically, too.
What are the Popular Fish Varieties in India?
Indian Salmon –
Known as Rawas or Gurjali, this is a popular fish found across India. It is known for its distinctive pink colour and a mild taste. The oily fish is vitamin-rich and contains a good quantity of Omega-3 fatty acids too.
Rohu –
This fish is a member of the Carp family, which people in Eastern India commonly eat. It grows up to 2 kg in weight and is rich in protein and essential fatty acids. The mercury level in Rohu is low, making it a safe option for fish lovers.
Mackerel –
Commonly known as Bangda, this fish is one of the staples across India, particularly for people living in coastal areas. This is an oily fish too and is a good source of protein and other nutrients.
Pink Perch –
You can find this pink-coloured fish in freshwaters across India. Termed as Rani or Queen, it is a lean fish that is smaller in size.
Hilsa –
This is a seasonal fish that is known for its delicate flesh and rich, oil-filled consistency. It is filled with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids and requires very little oil to fry. This is a delicacy in West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam primarily. Bangladeshis also consider it a national treasure.
Which are the Top Fish Recipes in India?
Fish Moilee –
Meen Molee, or Fish moilee, is a dish that originated in Kerala. It is a coconut-based dish that is spiced lightly. The consistency is similar to a stew, making it easy to digest. It has crossed the boundaries of India to reach Malaysia, Singapore, and Gulf Countries, winning a huge number of followers on the way. You are free to use any sea fish for cooking this flavourful dish.
Doi Maach –
This is a yoghurt-based dish that is often cooked in Bengali households. You can use large pieces of Rohu or Katla to accentuate the flavour and taste of fish curry without compromising on the nutritive value.
Amritsari Fish –
Marinate any freshwater fish that appeals to you with a selection of spices and gram flour to prepare this delectable, restaurant-style dish at home. Deep-fry the fish slices coated with batter, and serve it as a snack in accompaniment to hot tea/coffee. This is Punjabi street food at its best!
Sukya Bangdyache Hooman –
Fish curry and steamed rice is the mainstay of the coastal community of Goa. Mackerel is sourced and dried to be used during the monsoon season when the Government bans fishing. This is a delicacy that uses different types of chillies to bring out the taste of the fish. To temper the heat from the chillies, people use grated coconut, and they also add dried Goan berry to enliven the dish as well. It contains vitamin D in abundance.
Smoked Hilsa –
You cannot ignore the lure of Hilsa when you visit Eastern India. Try cooking this heavenly dish with marinated pieces of Hilsa smoked over hot charcoal. The smoky flavour elevates the taste, making it quite distinct from other fish curries in the region.
If the recipes listed above have got you hankering for the five best fish to eat, then you’ll be happy to know that we stock all of the above and more.
We source our fish and seafood daily from government-approved partners and deliver them within 24 hours. Our fish undergoes 150+ safety and quality checks before being approved for delivery and is cut, cleaned and packed by our expert meat technicians.
We stock whole fish, fillets, boneless cubes, curry cuts & more. Cook your heart out, and when you do, be sure to post pics on Instagram and tag us with #MadeWithLicious. We’d love to see your creations!