The Indian Butterfish, better known as Pomfret or Paplet, is a type of Butterfish widely found in South Asia, especially in the Indian Ocean. Delicious to eat, it is protein-rich and has a lot of omega-3 fatty acids. India’s most widely sold fish is the white or silver pomfret and the black pomfret.
People love Pomfret due to its delicate white flesh with the subtle “non-fishy” flavour. Upon plating, the flesh breaks easily.
In the Northeastern part of India, people call Butterfish: Pabda, Konande, or Butter Catfish.
It has a rounded, deep-bodied appearance, with the dorsal and anal fins pointing downwards. Almost all the species have pale blue skin on the top, along with a silvery belly. Butterfish measures 12 inches in length on average, while the general run is about 6 to 9 inches. Weight is roughly 1.25 pounds or 566 grams.
Where can you find Butterfish?
Pomfret is found in the Indian and Pacific oceans. However, the largest popular species is the Atlantic pomfret.
How nutritious is the Butterfish?
The rich buttery flavour makes Butterfish famous for its palatable taste. Adding to it is the protein & omega-3 fatty acids that promote cardiovascular health. It is also rich in good fats. The low-calorie content in Butterfish makes it apt for fitness enthusiasts too.
What kinds of recipes is Butterfish usually used in?
Butterfish can be grilled, steamed, or even prepared as fish soups, cutlets, and cold salads. You can enjoy it in many ways, such as:
- Sushi
- Sashimi
- Fried fish
- Baked fish
- Tandoor pomfret
- Stuffed pomfret
- Pomfret in coconut
- Green curry
- Pomfret masala
- Steamed pomfret in red curry
What does Butterfish taste like?
Butterfish is one of the world’s favourite delicacies. It has a distinctive, rich, buttery texture and flavour. Use mild seasonings, so it doesn’t overpower the fish.
How to cook Butterfish?
Butterfish has a creamy texture and fine, flaky white flesh, not only easy to cook but also delicious to eat!
Butterfish can be cooked as fillets, cubes, or whole fish. If you’re trying thin fillets, go for poaching, steaming, and baking. These cooking methods are credible, and there’s absolutely no chance that the Butterfish dries out! In addition to this, you can also grill the Butterfish in aluminium foil to prevent it from drying.
To make your Butterfish taste even more delicious, here are some recipes you can try:
- For a tangy and tasty grilled flavour:
Grease the Butterfish with olive oil. For seasoning, use salt and pepper. Then, grill until the fish just begins to flake. You can also use lemon juice and minced garlic to add an extra flavour. Make sure the fish is marinated properly with this paste before grilling.
- Baked Butterfish, very little fussing and done in under 15- 20 minutes:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of butter with chopped parsley, and chives.
- Place the Butterfish into the prepared dish.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and a sprinkling of salt, and pepper.
Once the fish flakes easily with a fork, you’re ready to taste!
- If fried is what you live for, try this:
Spritz your fish with a little milk, then roll in flour, and fry in a frying pan. In the next step, sprinkle salt and top with a squeeze of lemon and parsley.
In addition to these, you can even try Tawa-fry and steamed Butterfish.
What kinds of cuts are available at Licious?
Online at Licious, we have 3 types of Pomfret: Black Pomfret, White Pomfret and Chinese Silver Pomfret. You can opt for either small, medium or large steaks or buy them whole, depending on your cooking method. All of our fish & seafood is cleaned, descaled, gutted, cut and ready for your pan. You need not do any prep at all.
Order now and get truly fresh fish, with ZERO added chemicals or preservatives that are ideal for pan, sear, fry, or grill! We also have a wide range of other meats & seafood, eggs, spreads and ready-to-cook treats that we’re sure you would love. Be sure to give them a try too.
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