Tilapia (Daiyya)

Introduction

If you want a fish that’s easy to cook, mild in flavor, and perfect for everyday meals, Tilapia — known locally as Daiyya — is a fantastic choice. This freshwater favorite has a soft, lean, white flesh that absorbs spices beautifully without tasting strong or oily. Because of its clean, delicate flavor, it’s a hit with families, kids, and anyone who prefers lighter seafood.

Tilapia cooks quickly and works with all kinds of recipes — Karachi-style masala, crispy shallow fry, grilled fillets, baked herb fish, or even soups and stews. It’s one of the most versatile and beginner-friendly seafood options you can keep in your kitchen. Delivered fresh, cleaned, and chilled, Daiyya brings healthy, everyday-friendly goodness straight to your home.

Similar Fish to Try

If you enjoy the mild, soft taste of Tilapia, you may also like Rahu (Rohu) for a slightly richer bite, Common Carp (Gulfam) for a delicate freshwater flavor, or Catfish Fillet for a meatier option.

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 Choose Tilapia (Daiyya) from Anbar Fish?

Mild, Clean Taste – Perfect for those who enjoy lighter seafood
Soft, Tender Flesh – Great for frying, curry, grilling, or baking
High Meat Yield – More usable fish per serving
Affordable Freshwater Option – Great for daily meals
Fresh & Hygienic Delivery – Cleaned, chilled & ready to cook

Health Benefits of Tilapia

High in Protein – Helps build strength and energy
Low Fat & Low Calories – Ideal for healthy diets
Rich in Omega-3 & Omega-6 – Supports heart and joint health
Vitamin B12 & Niacin – Boosts metabolism and brain function
Packed with Minerals – Phosphorus & selenium for bone and immune support

Cooking Inspiration

Tilapia Masala Curry – Soft flakes in a rich tomato-onion gravy
Crispy Fried Daiyya – Golden crust, juicy inside
Grilled Tilapia Fillets – Smoky, herby, and low-oil
Baked Tilapia with Lemon & Garlic – Light, aromatic, and delicious
Pan-Seared Tilapia – Quick weekday meal with simple seasoning

Tilapia (Daiyya) – FAQ