The mushi fish is a very rare variety of catfish found in Southern Asia. You may or may not have heard about this fish. However, let us tell you that this variety of fish is not only delicious, but it also has several health benefits. Many people believe that the consumption of this fish can improve your health and boost your immunity. Nevertheless, the awareness around this fresh seafood is not much in India.
Fret not! We, at Licious, got you covered. We will walk you through all the major aspects of the mushi fish.
The mushi fish has many names depending upon the region of India. It is widely consumed in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and other Southern states of India. The Tamil name of the fish is Keluthi Meen, and the Kannada name is Murgodu. It is cooked in a variety of ways depending upon the different regions of the country.
What is Mushi Fish?
The mushi fish is popularly known as the standing catfish or simply catfish. It is a freshwater fish that resides in Southeast Asian countries. The scientific name of this fish is Clarias batrachus, and it is also known as the Walking Catfish because it does not live in one place and wanders from place to place in search of food and prey. The main source of food for it is smaller fish.
Although this is a freshwater fish, it mostly resides in puddles, rivers, ponds, and streams. They live in marshy and wet areas. The mushi fish is also perfectly capable of surviving without water. It can wiggle its way on land for survival. There is a high presence of mucus on the body of this fish. Due to this, it becomes slippery and difficult to catch.
They can also be very heavy, weighing up to 8-10 Kgs or even more. The colour can vary from greyish brown to black. It also contains a sting on its fins and can be mildly poisonous when caught incorrectly.
This fish’s delicate and tender body gives a delicious taste to all the fish curries made out of it.
What are the health benefits of mushi fish?
There are many health benefits when you consider this fish. The mushi fish price is moderate in the Indian fish market due to its many benefits. The cost can rise depending on the seasons.
The various health benefits of this fish are as follows:
- It contains many proteins that help in strengthening the body. It also makes for a balanced diet.
- It also contains many minerals like iron, phosphorus, and zinc, which help maintain the mineral levels in your body.
- It is a rich source of Vitamin B12.
- It is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Omega-3 fatty acids can help decrease cholesterol levels.
What can you cook with Mushi Fish?
Ingredients
- Small or medium pieces mushi fish
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri red chilli powder
- 2 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 ½ tbsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Salt per taste
- 2 tbsp rice flour
Instructions
- Take all the spices and mix them in a bowl. Add vinegar.
- Check if the mixture is too dry; add more vinegar.
- Once it becomes a paste, coat the fish evenly with it.
- Marinate for 20-30 minutes.
- Take a wok and heat oil.
- On another dish, spread the rice flour and coat the fish. Add the fish to the oil and shallow fry them till they turn golden brown.
- Make sure it’s cooked evenly on all sides. Serve hot!