Cat Fish (Singhara Fish)

Cat Fish (Singhara) — Fresh, Meaty & Perfect for Curry, Fry & Traditional Desi Dishes | Karachi Delivery

Cat Fish — locally known as Singhara Fish — is a popular freshwater fish in Karachi, loved for its thick, meaty flesh and rich taste. It’s especially favored in desi curries and masala dishes, where its firm texture holds up beautifully and absorbs spices deeply.

Singhara Fish has a slightly stronger flavor compared to soft white fish, making it ideal for people who enjoy bold, traditional Pakistani seafood. Whether you’re cooking a spicy singhara curry, masala fry, or slow-cooked gravy, this fish delivers a satisfying, hearty bite.

At Anbar Fish Karachi, we source fresh Singhara daily, hygienically clean it, and deliver it chilled and ready to cook across Karachi — ensuring market-fresh quality without the hassle.

Similar Fish to Try: If you like the bold, meaty flavor of Singhara, you may also enjoy Catfish Khagga (Boneless) for convenience, Rahu (Rohu) for its softer, milder flesh, or Conger Eel (Baam Fish) for an even more unique, meaty bite.

Flavor Profile

Cat Fish (singhara fish) boasts a mild, delicate flavor that’s often described as slightly sweet. Its texture is firm yet tender, making it ideal for grilling, frying, or currying. The meat’s succulence and adaptability in various dishes contribute to its popularity in culinary creations.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Fresh Water Catfish
• Local Name: Khagga, Singhara
• Scientific Name: Arius thalassinus

Habitat

Freshwater catfish (singhara fish) inhabit various aquatic environments, including rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. They thrive in calm, slow-moving waters with ample hiding spots, such as submerged logs and vegetation. These habitats provide shelter and suitable conditions for their feeding and breeding activities.

Catching Method

Freshwater catfish (singhara fish) are caught using a variety of methods, depending on local practices and Pakistani fishing regulations. Some common catching methods include angling, noodling, nets, traps, and farming.

Physical Attributes

Freshwater catfish (singhara fish) feature an elongated body with a streamlined shape. Their skin is typically smooth or covered in small scales. They possess whisker-like barbels around their mouth, aiding in sensory perception. Catfish have spines on their dorsal and pectoral fins, and some species exhibit unique color patterns. Their eyes are usually positioned on the sides of their head, enhancing their ability to detect movement and locate food in their aquatic habitats.

Size

The size range of freshwater catfish (singhara fish) can vary widely depending on the available species in Pakistan and environmental factors. Generally, freshwater catfish can range from a few inches to several feet in length. Some smaller species might be around 6 to 12 inches, while larger ones can grow to over 3 feet or more.

Cutting Preferences

Freshwater catfish (singhara fish) are versatile when it comes to cutting preferences. They can be enjoyed as whole fish, filleted, or cut into steaks. Filleting removes the bones and provides boneless portions, while steaks are cross-section cuts that include the bone. The choice depends on the cooking method and personal preference, offering flexibility in preparing a variety of dishes.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• – Whole: 100% yield
• – Gutted: 80% yield
• – Headless and Gutted: 60% yield
• – Slices: 55% yield
• – Boneless: 40% yield

Why Choose Catfish (Singhara)?

• Firm, Bold Flesh – Holds up well in curries, frying, and grilling.
• Excellent Meat Yield – Thick cuts with plenty of flesh.
• Rich Flavor – Slightly earthy taste, loved in Pakistani kitchens.
• Year-Round Availability – Popular in both home cooking and restaurants.
• Hygienic & Fresh Delivery – Cleaned, chilled, and brought straight from trusted suppliers.

Health Benefits of Singhara

• High in Protein – Supports energy and muscle strength.
• Omega-3 Rich – Good for heart and brain health.
• Bone & Joint Support – Contains vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus.
• Boosts Immunity – Selenium and B12 improve defense against illness.
• Weight-Friendly – Lean protein with low fat and calories.

Read more at The Nutrition Source

Cooking Inspiration

• Singhara Masala Fry – Spicy, crispy, and perfect with naan or paratha.
• Grilled Catfish Steaks – Smoky and juicy, ideal for BBQ nights.
• Karachi-Style Curry – A thick masala base that soaks into the fish beautifully.
• Catfish Stew – A hearty and comforting dish for winter evenings.

Catfish (Singhara Fish) — FAQ