Dentex ( Daathi )

Dentex (Daathi) — Firm, Flavorful & Perfect for Frying, Grilling, Curry & BBQ

Dentex — locally known as Daathi — is a premium white-meat fish loved for its firm texture, clean flavor, and excellent meat-to-bone ratio. With its slightly sweet taste and thick flakes, Daathi is ideal for anyone who wants a fish that cooks beautifully in both desi and continental dishes.

Its meat stays firm during frying, grilling, steaming, and curry, making Dentex a top choice for fish BBQ, tawa masala, lemon-butter fillets, Karachi-style curry, and whole-fry presentations. The natural richness of the fish gives every bite a smooth, satisfying finish without being too strong.

At Anbar Fish, each Dentex is freshly sourced, expertly cleaned, and delivered chilled, so you get restaurant-quality seafood at home.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy the firm, mild taste of Dentex, you may also like: Red Snapper (Heera) for bright white flakes, Emperor (Mulla) for rich, meaty fillets, Halibut (Hajjam) for premium firmness, or Cobia (Sangra) for thick, juicy steaks.

Flavor Profile

Dentex is not only great game fish but is very famous for its taste and aroma. Its pinkish-white flesh is firm and flaky and turns to be very juicy when cooked properly.

Habitat

Dentex is usually found in shallow water less than 50 m deep.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Dentex, Common Dentex
• Local Name: Daathi
• Scientific Name: Dentex

Catching Method

Dentex are caught using bottom trawls, gillnets, and hand lines.

Physical Attributes

The ovary of the body, rather deep and compressed. In adults, the profile of the head is smoothly rounded but almost straight in the young.  A slight frontal drop in very large individuals. Eyes are small, suborbital space wide. Cheeks falling; The scales appear on the preamp except at its anterior margin. Facedown, somewhat oblique.

Color

In young Dentex specimens, the color is silvery-brown, stained with black on the back and top, pink with sexual maturity; Older individuals have blue-gray and darker spots more or less spread with age.

Size

On average, the Dentex size range is 1 kg to 5 kg per fish. However, Other sizes are also occasionally available.

Cutting Preferences

Dentex is preferred for all types of cutting.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• Whole: 100 %
• Gutted: 82 %
• Headless and Gutted: 70 %
• Slices: 65 %
• Boneless:40 %

Why Choose Dentex (Daathi) from Anbar Fish?

Firm, Meaty Texture – Holds shape during high-heat cooking
Slightly Sweet, Clean Flavor – Loved by families
High Meat Yield – Thick fillets with fewer bones
Versatile Cooking – Works great in fry, grill, curry & continental dishes
Fresh Coastal Supply – Hygienically cleaned & chilled delivery

Health Benefits of Dentex Fish

High in Lean Protein – Ideal for muscle strength & energy
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports heart & brain health
Low in Fat – Great for weight-conscious diets
Packed with Selenium & Phosphorus – Boosts bone and immune health
Source of B-Complex Vitamins – Improves metabolism & energy levels

Cooking Inspiration

Daathi Fish Fry – Light, crispy, and full of flavor
Grilled Dentex Steaks – Juicy, smoky, and perfect for BBQ nights
Dentex Curry – Firm slices that soak masala beautifully
Lemon-Garlic Fillets – Restaurant-style and quick to prepare
Baked Dentex – Healthy, soft, and incredibly flavorful

Pro Tip: Marinate Dentex with lemon, garlic, and mild spices for 15–30 minutes — its firm meat absorbs flavor exceptionally well.

Dentex (Daathi) — FAQ