Rabbit Fish (Safi Fish)

Rabbit Fish (Safi Fish) — Mild, Clean & Perfect for Frying, Curry, Grilling & Traditional Coastal Recipes

Rabbit Fish — commonly known as Safi Fish in Pakistan — is a coastal favourite cherished for its mild flavor, soft texture, and healthy white meat. It’s one of those easy-to-cook fish that fits beautifully into everyday meals, especially for families who prefer seafood with no strong smell and a gentle taste.

Safi Fish has tender meat that absorbs spices wonderfully, making it perfect for Karachi-style masala fish fry, desi curry, grilled fillets, and light lemon-herb dishes. Its clean taste and medium firmness also make it great for kids and those who want a mild alternative to stronger fish varieties.

Freshly sourced from the Arabian Sea and delivered chilled, our Rabbit Fish (Safi Fish) gives you top-quality freshness and a healthy meal option every time.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy the mild, tender qualities of Safi Fish, you may also like: Seabream (Safaid Dandia), Tilapia (Daiyya), Mullet (Boi Fish), or Goldline Bream (Kapartan) — all gentle, light-flavored options ideal for family meals.

Flavor Profile

The taste is sweet and mild. The flesh stays very firm when cooked by any method and it’s good for curries. It flakes apart very easily if poached, so care is needed.

Nomenclature

English Name: Rabbitfish, Java Rabbitfish
Local Name: Safi, Kaala Saafi
Scientific Name: Siganus canaliculatus

Habitat

Rabbit (Safi Fish) is usually found in small schools over shallow brackish coastal waters of lagoons, corals, and rocky reefs such as Charna island.

Catching Method

Rabbit (Safi Fish) is caught using Cast net, Gillnets & Bottom Trawls.

Physical Attributes

Rabbitfish is a sea fish and doesn’t have scales. The unusual feature among rabbitfishes is their pelvic fins, which are formed from two spines, with three soft rays between them. The dorsal fin bears 13 spines with 10 rays behind, while the anal fin has seven spines and nine rays behind; the fin spines are equipped with well-developed venom glands.

Color

Highly variable in life, The Rabbitfish’s body is page grayish, with many yellowish-white spots on the head and upper part of the body. The central and lower parts of the body have wavy lines and streaks. The head is yellowish and so are the dorsal and anal fins.

Size

On average, the Rabbitfish (Safi Fish) size range is 500 to 2000 grams per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.

Cutting Preferences

Rabbit (Safi Fish) is preferred for boneless fillets and boneless biscuits.

Approx. Cutting Yields

• Whole: 100%
• Gutted: 80%
• Headless and Gutted: 65%
• Slices: 65%
• Boneless: 45%

Why Choose Rabbit Fish (Safi Fish) from Anbar Fish?

Mild & Family-Friendly Flavor – No overpowering aroma
Soft, Tender Meat – Great for frying, curry, and pan-searing
Light & Healthy – Ideal for daily meals
Versatile Cooking Options – Works with desi & continental styles
Fresh Coastal Catch – Cleaned, washed & delivered chilled

Health Benefits of Safi Fish

Rich in Protein – Great for strength, recovery & energy
Low in Fat – Perfect for weight-conscious diets
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports heart, brain & skin health
Contains Vitamin B12 & D – Helps immunity & metabolism
High in Minerals – Selenium, phosphorus & potassium

Cooking Inspiration

Safi Fish Fry – Crispy, golden and soft inside
Rabbit Fish Curry – Mild fish that absorbs masala beautifully
Grilled Safi Fillets – Light, smoky, and flavourful
Pan-Seared Rabbit Fish – Quick and healthy option
Coastal-Style Safi Masala – A traditional favourite

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate Safi Fish with salt, lemon, garlic, and a touch of red masala for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Rabbit Fish (Safi Fish) — FAQ