Indian Mackerel (Bangda) — Rich, Flavourful & Perfect for Frying, Curry & Grilling
Indian Mackerel — commonly known as Bangda — is a flavour-packed, oily, and nutrient-rich fish that’s extremely popular across South Asia. If you enjoy seafood with a stronger aroma, bold taste, and tender meat, Bangda is one of the most satisfying choices you can bring home.
Bangda’s natural oils give it a deep, savory flavour that elevates everything from quick pan-fry recipes to spicy masala gravies. Its soft meat cooks fast, crisps beautifully when shallow-fried, and stays juicy on the grill.
Freshly sourced from the Arabian Sea and delivered chilled, our Bangda ensures premium freshness, clean cuts, and unbeatable seafood aroma straight to your kitchen.
Similar Fish to Try
If you enjoy the bold, oily flavour of Bangda, you may also like: Sardine (Luar) for a similar rich profile, Black Barracuda (Kala Kund) for stronger, meaty flavour, or Queen Fish (Saram) for firm, lean steaks.
Nomenclature
- English Name: Indian Mackerel
- Local Name: Rastrelliger kanagurta
- Scientific Name: Rastrelliger kanagurta
- Family: Scombrid
Habitat
Indian Mackerel is a Sea fish that mainly lives in the Pelagic region and travels in schools near coastal waters.
Catching Method
Indian Mackerel is caught using Gillnets, Hook lines, Seines, & Cast nets.
Physical Attributes
Indian Mackerel has only a few Scales right behind the gill covers. The body depth at the posterior margin of opercle is 4.3–5.2 in FL, gill rakers are very long and are visible when the mouth is opened, 30–46 on a lower limb on 1st-gill arch and 2 widely separated dorsal fins and maxilla partly concealed, covered by lacrimal bone, well developed adipose eyelid and intrapelvic process small and single.
Color
Back blue-green with longitudinal dark bands dorsally (golden in fresh specimens), silvery below with 1 or 2 rows of small, dark spots on sides of dorsal fin bases, dorsal fins yellowish with black tips, caudal and pectoral fins yellowish and other fins dusky.
Size
On average, Indian Mackerel size range is 100 gram to 150 gram per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.
Cutting Preferences
Indian Mackerel is preferred for Whole & Gutted and Headless.
Approx. Cutting Yields
- Whole: 100%
- Gutted: 80%
- Headless and Gutted: 68%
- Slices: 65%
- Boneless: Not Possible
Why Choose Indian Mackerel (Bangda) from Anbar Fish?
Bold, Savory Flavor – A favourite for rich, spicy recipes
Naturally Oily Meat – Juicy, aromatic, and full of depth
Perfect for Frying & Masala – Absorbs spices exceptionally well
Affordable & Nutritious – Great value for daily meals
Fresh Daily Catch – Cleaned professionally and delivered chilled
Health Benefits of Indian Mackerel
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Excellent for heart & brain health
High Protein – Supports strength and energy
Contains Vitamin B12 & D – Helps bone health and immunity
Packed with Good Fats – Beneficial for skin, hair & metabolism
Essential Minerals – Iron, calcium, and selenium
Cooking Inspiration
Bangda Fry – Crispy skin, juicy and full of flavour
Mackerel Masala Curry – Perfect for rice, roti, or steamed meals
Grilled Bangda – Smoky, aromatic, and rich
Tawa Bangda – Karachi-style with green masala
Steamed or Wrapped in Banana Leaf – Light, fragrant coastal-style cooking
Tip: Because Bangda is naturally oily, it tastes best when cooked on medium heat to avoid drying out.
Indian Mackerel (Bangda) — FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Bangda a strong-smelling fish? | Yes, naturally aromatic with a rich, oily flavour. |
| Is it good for frying? | Excellent — crisps beautifully and stays juicy. |
| Can I cook it in curry? | Yes — Bangda absorbs spices perfectly. |
| Is Bangda healthy? | Very — rich in omega-3, protein, and essential vitamins. |
| Is it delivered fresh or frozen? | Delivered fresh and chilled; frozen available on request. |
| Do you clean the fish? | Yes — gutted, washed, and ready to cook. |
| Do you deliver across Karachi? | Yes — fast, same-day chilled delivery. |
| Can I order online? | Absolutely — choose quantity and checkout instantly. |






Alam Azhar Qureshi (verified owner) –
I have ordered the fish “Bangda” yesterday, and today they delivered the freshest fish.
Mashallah fish is absolutely fresh and cutted very well. Will order them again. All the best for your great services.