Tilapia (Daiyya)

Tilapia (Daiyya Fish) — Mild, Soft & Ideal for Everyday Fry and Curry | Fresh Delivery in Karachi

Tilapia, locally called Daiyya Fish, is one of the most commonly cooked freshwater fish in Karachi homes. It’s loved for its mild taste, soft texture, and clean flavor, making it a reliable choice for everyday meals. If you prefer fish that isn’t overpowering and cooks quickly, Daiyya is a safe and satisfying option.

Tilapia works best in simple fry, light curry, tawa masala, and gentle grilling. Its meat is soft and tender, so it absorbs spices lightly rather than aggressively—perfect for people who enjoy balanced, home-style cooking. Because of its easy digestibility, it’s especially popular for kids, elders, and regular family meals.

At Anbar Fish Karachi, Tilapia is freshly sourced, hygienically cleaned, and delivered chilled across Karachi, so you receive clean, ready-to-cook fish without the hassle of the local market.

Similar Fish You May Like

If you enjoy Tilapia (Daiyya Fish), you may also like:

• Rahu / Rohu Fish – Better for curry lover

• Gulfam Fish (Common Carp) – Soft freshwater alternative

• Catla (Thaila Fish) – Firmer texture for gravy

Flavor Profile

Tilapia has a sweet, mild taste with lean flesh and a medium-firm, flaky texture. Raw flesh is white or pinkish-white sometimes with a darker muscle layer on the skin side of the fillets. The flesh cooks up to a white color.

Nomenclature

• English Name: Tilapia
• Local Name: Daiyya, Chirra
• Scientific Name: Oreochromis niloticus

Habitat

Tilapia are originally from the Nile River. Tilapia is a freshwater fish that is usually farmed in Pakistan. Tilapia can also be found in natural fresh and brackish waters where it feeds on algae.

Catching Method

Tilapia is caught using gillnets and farm nets.

Physical Attributes

Tilapia is completely covered with fairly large scales which scrape off easily with moderate flying about. Tilapia are shaped much like sunfish or crappie but can be easily identified by an interrupted lateral line characteristic of the Cichlid family of fishes. They are laterally compressed and deep-bodied with long dorsal fins. The forward portion of the dorsal fin is heavily spined.

Color

Tilapia are brownish green fish with but it varies region wise.

Size

On average, the tilapia size range is 200 to 1000 grams per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.

Cutting Preferences

Tilapia is preferred for boneless fillets, boneless biscuits, and boneless fingers.

Approx. Peeling Yields

• Whole: 100 %
• Tails only: 30 %
• Headless and Gutted: 68%
• Slices: 65%
• Boneless: 35%

Why Tilapia (Daiyya) Is a Daily Kitchen Staple

• Mild, non-fishy taste
• Soft and tender flesh
• Cooks quickly with minimal oil
• Budget-friendly everyday fish
• Suitable for all age groups
• Fresh, hygienically prepared in Karachi

Health Benefits of Tilapia Fish

• Good source of lean protein
• Naturally low in fat
• Contains Omega-3 fatty acids
• Rich in Vitamin B12 & Vitamin D
• Easy to digest and light on the stomach

Is Tilapia realy good for your health? Read more in an insightful article on WebMD about Tilapia consumption

Best Ways to Cook Daiyya Fish

Tilapia Fry – Lightly seasoned and shallow-fried
Daiyya Fish Curry – Mild gravy, home-style taste
Tawa Masala Tilapia – Quick Karachi favorite
Grilled Tilapia – Simple and healthy
Pan-Fried Pieces – Perfect for lunch or dinner

Cooking Tip: Tilapia is a soft fish, avoid over-stirring or high heat to keep the pieces intact.

Tilapia (Daiyya) – FAQ