Indians are known to be big on fish and other types of seafood. Fish is considered to be one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can consume. Apart from being high in protein, many different types of fish are also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. There are different types of fish available in India, and Indian cuisine is famous for its variety of fish dishes. So, if you’re looking for some ideas on how to add more fish to your diet, read on to learn more about the seven different types of Indian fish.
Kerai/Soorai (Tuna fish)
Tuna is popularly known as Soorai or Kerai and is mainly fished in the deep waters off the Goa coast, in Karnataka, Kerala, and the Andaman Islands. It is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids and is also rich in vitamin B12 and iron, which are both important for healthy brain function and red blood cell production. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve your heart health by lowering your blood pressure and reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. It is also a very popular type of fish consumed around the world and can be found in every corner of the globe.
Bangda (Indian Mackerel)
The Indian mackerel, or "bangda," is only found in the Arabian Sea and is therefore very popular in Mumbai and Goa. It is an oily fish that is rich in essential minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. It is also a good source of protein. This fish has very little saturated fat and is low in cholesterol, making it a healthy food option for people with heart conditions. It is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants, making it ideal for improving immunity and fighting diseases.
Jhinga (Prawns or Shrimp)
Prawns are the perfect fish option for people who are on a low-carb diet. They are low in fat and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for weight loss or a low-carb diet. Jhinga is a good source of minerals and is low in saturated fat and rich in vitamins, making it a healthy option for people with low blood pressure.
Rawas (Salmon)
Rawas, also known as Indian salmon, can be found in the coastal waters of Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is a healthy fish option because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fat is important for heart health, making salmon a great choice for those with high cholesterol levels and also helping ward off osteoporosis. Additionally, the vitamins A, D, and Selenium in rawas can shield the nervous system from age-related harm and even have an anti-depressant effect. Furthermore, studies have revealed that consuming rawas frequently can reduce systemic inflammation and the danger of developing cardiovascular problems like atherosclerosis, hypertension, and stroke.
Rohu
The Rohu fish is found in rivers, and it has been identified as a great provider of vitamin C, which is crucial for maintaining good health. Eating Rohu helps to fight off illnesses such as the common cold and cough, as well as prevent diseases associated with them. Rohu is crammed with protein but contains only a small amount of fat, making it the perfect dish. It offers plenty of advantages without causing extra fat to accumulate.
Pomfret
Hilsa
Hilsa is a seasonal fish that has a delicate texture and is quite oily. Hilsa fish, which is also referred to as Ilish, is a highly admired species among Bengalis due to its incredible flavor and nourishing content. It is even thought of as the national fish of Bengal. Bengalis, in particular, adore its delectable flavor. It is a good source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and doesn't require much oil to fry. Eating Hilsa fish helps keep your blood triglyceride levels in check, and augmenting the amount of beneficial HDL cholesterol in your system can have a positive influence on your heart health.