Amberjack (Saafi)

Amberjack (Saafi Fish) — Firm, Flavorful & Perfect for Frying, BBQ & Steaks

Amberjack — known locally as Saafi Fish — is a premium, meaty, and richly flavored fish that’s perfect for both desi and continental cooking. With its thick white fillets, sturdy texture, and mild yet savory taste, Amberjack is a favorite among seafood lovers who enjoy high-protein, firm-flesh fish that stays intact during cooking.

Whether you’re frying it crispy, grilling juicy steaks, pan-searing it with butter and herbs, or making a spicy masala curry, Saafi Fish delivers restaurant-quality results. Its natural flavor is stronger than mild fish like Pomfret but not overpowering — just enough depth to make your dishes satisfying and hearty.

Freshly sourced, expertly cleaned, and delivered chilled, our Amberjack brings premium freshness and flavor straight from the Arabian Sea.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy the firm, meaty richness of Amberjack, you may also like: Queen Fish (Saram) for firm flakes, Cobia (Sangra) for thick white fillets, or Giant Trevally (Patal Fish) for bold, meaty steaks.

Flavor Profile

This is a medium and dark meat fish with a distinct but pleasant flavor. It’s not a fish for those who want “fish lite”, but is highly thought of by people who actually like fish. The dark strip down the center runs quite deep, but it does not differ greatly in flavor or oiliness from the lighter flesh.

The flesh becomes quite firm when baked, steamed or poached, but is easily broken into large flakes. It holds together well enough for fish stews.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Amberjack, Yellow tail Amberjack
• Local Name: Saafi
• Scientific Name: Seriola dumerili

Habitat

Amberjack is a Sea fish that lives in deep seaward reefs, occasionally entering coastal bays, smaller fish may be taken in shallow water.

Catching Method

Amberjack is caught using Gillnets & Line Gears.

Physical Attributes

Amberjack has elongated, moderately compressed bodies. They have a slender head longer than their body depth and have 31-34 dorsal-fin rays.

Color

They are generally blue, bluish-green, or purplish-green above and silvery-white below. Amberjacks can be distinguished by their yellow caudal fins.

Size

On average, the Amberjack size range is 2000 to 8000 grams per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.

Cutting Preferences

Since it’s a large fish, Amberjack is preferred for boneless cutting only.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• Whole: 100%
• Gutted: 75%
• Headless and Gutted: 60%
• Slices: 65%
• Boneless: 40%

Why Choose Amberjack (Saafi) from Anbar Fish?

Firm, Meaty Texture – Perfect for frying, BBQ & pan-searing
Rich, Balanced Flavor – Stronger than mild fish but clean-tasting
High Meat Yield – Thick, satisfying slices
Perfect for Steak Cuts – Ideal for grilling and marination
Fresh Arabian Sea Catch – Delivered chilled & hygienic

Health Benefits of Amberjack

High in Protein – Excellent for muscle strength & daily nutrition
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports heart & brain health
Low in Saturated Fat – Great for healthy meals
Packed with Vitamin B12 & Niacin – Boosts energy and metabolism
Contains Selenium & Potassium – Helps immunity and bone strength

Cooking Inspiration

Saafi Fish Fry – Crispy outside, juicy and flavorful inside
BBQ Amberjack Steaks – Smoky, meaty, and perfect for gatherings
Pan-Seared Amberjack – Garlic butter, lemon, & herbs
Saafi Masala Curry – Bold fish that absorbs spices beautifully
Baked Amberjack Fillets – Light, nutritious, and full of flavor

Chef’s Tip: Amberjack’s firmness makes it ideal for heavy marination and charcoal grilling.

Amberjack (Saafi Fish) — FAQ