Descriptions
The Black Pomfret (Kala Paplait) is a highly popular and versatile fish in South Asia, widely consumed across Pakistan due to its delicious taste, rich texture, and adaptability in cooking. This fish is available year-round at stable prices and comes in a variety of sizes, making it an excellent choice for different cooking styles.
📌 One of the most sought-after fish in South Asian cuisine
📌 Works well with all cooking methods – frying, grilling, steaming, and baking
📌 Mild yet flavorful taste with a smooth texture
✔️ Taste: Mild, slightly sweet, and non-fishy
✔️ Texture: Soft, flaky, and juicy
✔️ Cooking Compatibility: Adaptable for grilling, frying, and steaming
💡 Fun Fact: Unlike some other fish, Black Pomfret has a dark strip under the skin, but it doesn’t have an overpowering taste.
Scientific & Local Classification
✔️ English Name: Black Pomfret
✔️ Local Names: Kala Paplait, Siah Pithoo
✔️ Scientific Name: Parastromateus niger
Habitat & Catching Method
✔️ Habitat: Found in coastal waters (15m to 40m depth), often over muddy seabeds
✔️ Fishing Methods: Caught using Gillnets, Hook Lines, and Bottom Trawling
✔️ Body Shape: Oval and laterally compressed
✔️ Scales: Present on the body, giving it a smooth appearance
✔️ Fins: Long, curved pectoral fins with a weakly arched lateral line
✔️ Tail Structure: Slight keel formation on the caudal peduncle
✔️ Body: Silvery-grey to bluish-brown, giving it a premium look
✔️ Flesh: Light-colored with a firm texture
✔️ Eyes: Medium-sized, perfect for deep-water visibility
Cutting & Cooking Preferences
✔️ Best Cutting Styles:
Whole Fish (for deep-frying and traditional cooking)
Gutted & Headless (for easy handling and clean cooking)
Slices (perfect for steaks and deep-frying)
✔️ Approximate Cutting Yields:
Whole Fish: 100%
Gutted: 80%
Headless & Gutted: 75%
Slices: 80%
Boneless Fillet: 45%
✔️ Recommended Cooking Methods:
Fried 🍳 – Crispy and golden, a household favorite
Grilled 🍢 – Perfectly absorbs smoky flavors
Steamed 🍲 – Retains moisture and nutrients
Baked 🍽️ – A healthier, flavorful option
✅ Heart-Healthy – Helps regulate cholesterol and blood circulation
✅ Lowers Blood Pressure – Contains essential omega-3 fatty acids
✅ Boosts Immunity – Packed with vitamins and minerals
✅ Supports Bone Health – Rich in calcium and phosphorus
✅ Enhances Skin & Hair – Promotes healthy skin and strong hair