Lady Finger Fish

Lady Finger Fish (Bamia / Silver Sillago)

Lady Finger Fish, also known as Bamia or Silver Sillago, is a prized saltwater fish known for its elongated, slender shape and pearly white skin. In South Asian and Middle Eastern markets, it is celebrated for its delicate texture and sweet, clean flavor. Because it is naturally lean and has very few bones, it is a favorite for families and health-conscious seafood lovers.

Product Specifications

• Type: Silver Sillago (Sillago sihama).

• Format: Whole (usually head-on, gutted).

• Size: Small to medium (typically 10–20cm in length).

• Meat Profile: Pure white, fine-textured, and very tender.

• Flavor: Mild, sweet, and non-oily.

Key Features

Nutritional Value (per 100g)

• Protein: 18g – 20g.

• Calories: ~85–95 kcal (One of the lightest fish options).

• Fat: < 1g.

• Rich in: Calcium, Phosphorus, and Omega-3s.

Top Culinary Uses

Pro Tip: Because the meat is so tender, Lady Finger fish cooks very quickly. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become fragile.

• Crispy Pan Fry: Marinate with salt, turmeric, and a dash of lemon juice. Dust with a little rice flour or semolina and shallow fry until golden and crispy.

• Lady Finger Fish Curry: Cooked in a light, thin gravy (Jhol) with black cumin (Kalo Jeera) and green chilies to highlight its natural sweetness.

• Grilled/Baked: Season with garlic, parsley, and olive oil for a Mediterranean-style light dinner.

• Tempura Style: Its slender shape makes it perfect for dipping in a light batter and deep-frying for a crunchy snack.

Handling & Storage

• Preparation: Trim the small fins and tail with kitchen scissors. The skin is very delicate, so scale it gently with the back of a knife.

• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator or under cold running water for 10 minutes.