Fresh Pompano Fish (Sonaf) – Premium, Juicy & Perfect for Frying and Grilling
Pompano Fish, locally known as Sonaf, is a premium saltwater fish admired for its buttery texture, clean taste, and naturally juicy flesh. It is a top choice for buyers who want a restaurant-quality fish that cooks evenly and tastes refined without heavy seasoning.
The meat is firm yet tender, offering a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with both simple desi marinades and continental flavors. Sonaf performs exceptionally well when pan-fried, shallow fried, or grilled, developing a crisp exterior while remaining moist inside. Its neat shape and high meat yield make it ideal for special meals, guests, and elegant home dining.
At Anbar Fish, Pompano (Sonaf) is carefully cleaned, professionally handled, and delivered through nationwide cold-chain logistics, ensuring freshness and premium quality across Pakistan.
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Flavor Profile
The pompano is a medium flavor fish with flesh that holds together very well for all modes of cooking, and its shape fits pans and steamers better than most fish do. The skin is fairly tough and feels a little leathery, but has no strong flavor.
Nomenclature
English Name: Pompano , Indian Pompano
Local Name: Sonaf, Sonam
Scientific Name: Trachinotus mookalee
Habitat
Pompano is a sea fish that lives in shallow coastal waters.
Catching Method
Pompano is caught using Gillnets.
Physical Attributes
Pompano has an incomplete covering of tiny scales that scrape off as a slush without making a mess. The profile of the snout is broadly rounded. The tongue is with a narrow band of teeth. The body is generally smooth and flat.
Color
Pompano is typically overall silvery in color, sometimes with dark or yellowish fins, and one or a few black markings on the side of their body.
Size
On average, the Pompano size range is 300 to 2000 grams per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.
Cutting Preferences
Pompano is preferred for gutted cut, Slices, and Fillet
Approx. Cutting Yields
- Whole: 100%
- Gutted: 90%
- Headless and Gutted: 70%
- Slices: 70%
- Boneless: 45%
Why Pompano Fish (Sonaf) is Popular
- Premium taste with a clean, buttery finish
- Juicy flesh that doesn’t dry easily
- Excellent for frying and grilling
- High meat yield with minimal waste
- Considered a luxury fish for special occasions
Health Benefits of Pompano Fish
- High in quality protein
- Naturally rich in healthy fats
- Supports heart and muscle health
- Filling yet easy to digest
- Suitable for balanced, nutritious diets
(Fresh seafood with no artificial additives or preservatives)
Best Ways to Cook Pompano Fish (Sonaf)
Crispy Fry – Turmeric, chili, lemon
Pan-Seared Pompano – Butter and garlic
Grilled Sonaf – Olive oil, herbs, and lemon
Masala Fry – Light desi spice coating
Light Curry – Short gravy to preserve flavor
Chef Tip: Score the fish lightly before marinating. Cook on medium heat to achieve a golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Pompano Fish (Sonaf) boneless? | No, it contains bones typical of whole fish. |
| Is it good for frying? | Yes, Sonaf is excellent for frying and pan-searing. |
| Does it have a strong smell? | No, it has a clean and mild aroma when fresh. |
| Is Pompano suitable for grilling? | Yes, its firm texture makes it ideal for grilling. |
| Do you deliver Sonaf nationwide? | Yes, via cold-chain delivery across Pakistan. |
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