Catla ( Catla )

Catla (Thaila) — Big, Meaty & Perfect for Curry, Frying, Grilling & Family Meals

Catla — commonly known as Thaila in Pakistan — is a popular freshwater fish cherished for its thick, meaty texture and mild flavor. If you enjoy fish with a higher meat yield and large, satisfying slices, Catla is an excellent choice for everyday meals as well as special family dishes.

Its rich white flesh stays firm during cooking, making it ideal for heavy masala curries, tawa fry, fish roast, grilled steaks, or even steaming. Catla has a gentle, pleasant flavor that absorbs spices beautifully without breaking apart — a big reason why it’s widely used in traditional Pakistani and Bengali-style recipes.

At Anbar Fish, our Catla is fresh, expertly cleaned, and delivered chilled, ensuring you get the best quality right at your doorstep.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy Catla’s meaty texture, you may also like: Rohu (Rahu) for softer flakes, Common Carp (Gulfam) for a richer freshwater flavor, Bhetki (Daangri) for premium fillets, or Tilapia (Daiyya) for light, tender fish suitable for daily meals.

Flavor Profile

Catla Fish boasts a lean, succulent flesh that showcases a firm texture and a captivating blend of sweet and nutty flavors. Its versatility in accommodating a wide spectrum of seasonings and spices makes it an excellent choice for crafting culinary masterpieces that cater to both delicate and bold taste preferences.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Catla Fish, Indian Carp
• Local Name: Bhakur, Bhakura
• Scientific Name: Bhakur, Bhakura

Habitat

Catla Fish thrives in freshwater havens, primarily inhabiting the calm waters of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Its natural habitat grants it a distinctive taste profile, setting it apart as a delicacy deeply connected to the purity of these aquatic environments.

Catching Method

At Anbar Fish, we prioritize sustainable fishing practices. Our Catla Fish is responsibly sourced using ethical methods such as traditional nets and lines. This ensures that you not only relish its delectable taste but also support the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.

Physical Attributes

Characterized by scales that glisten like jewels, Catla Fish showcases a preorbital width equal to its expressive eyes. The presence of fine granular teeth on the tongue and distinctive scale patterns adds to its allure. With 17–18 gill rakers on the 1st-gill arch, Catla Fish embodies the artistry of nature. Head and body are dusky golden dorsally and silver ventrally. Fins are gray to black. All the fins are generally light grey to black, although fish taken from turbid waters often have yellowish fins, with the anal fin being the brightest.

Color

Catla Fish delights the eyes as much as the palate. Its body presents a symphony of colors, transitioning from rich reddish-orange to a silvery sheen. The scales dance between bronze and silvery white on the belly and underside of the head, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

Size

Catla Fish showcases a range of sizes, with average weights spanning from 0.5 kg to 5 kg per fish. For those seeking a grander culinary canvas, larger sizes are also available upon occasion, enabling you to craft feasts fit for royalty.

Cutting Preferences

Catla Fish lends itself gracefully to various cuts, be it the elegance of whole presentation, the convenience of boneless fillets, or the culinary artistry of slices. Each cut retains the essence of Catla’s flavor, promising an exquisite dining journey.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• Whole: 100%
•  Gutted: 75%
•  Headless and Gutted: 55%
•  Slices: 55%
•  Boneless: 40%

Why Choose Catla (Thaila) from Anbar Fish?

Thick, Meaty Slices – Great for curry, fry & grilling
Mild, Clean Flavor – Loved by families and kids
High Meat-to-Bone Ratio – Excellent value for money
Perfect for Desi Cooking – Absorbs spices extremely well
Fresh & Hygienic Delivery – Cleaned, washed & chilled

Health Benefits of Catla Fish

High in Protein – Supports strength and daily nutrition
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Good for heart & brain health
Low in Fat – Great for weight-conscious eating
Contains Vitamin B12 & D – Boosts immunity and energy
Minerals like Phosphorus & Selenium – Supports bone health

Cooking Inspiration

Catla Fish Curry – Thick slices that soak up bold masala
Fried Thaila Slices – Crispy outside, soft and juicy inside
Grilled Catla Steaks – Smoky, flavorful, and satisfying
Catla Tawa Masala – A hearty, traditional favorite
Baked Catla Fillet – Light, healthy, and easy to prepare

Pro Tip: For best results, marinate Catla with lemon, garlic, and mild spices for 20–30 minutes before cooking.

Catla (Thaila) — FAQ