Ilish – or Hilsa – is a popular fish in South Asian countries, especially in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. Ilish fish in Dubai is regarded among seafood lovers for its distinct taste and soft meat. In the past few years, Ilish has been included in Dubai’s vast range of cuisines. It welcomes both expatriates and locals wanting to experience its rich flavours.
Where to Buy Ilish Fish in Dubai?
Dubai is strategically positioned as a trading hub. It ensures that products like Ilish fish are readily available in its markets. Numerous vendors meet the needs of customers eager to order this dish:
- United Fish: This supplier stocks fresh Hilsa fish, ready for online orders with quick delivery services throughout Dubai. Clients can place orders for fresh, ready-to-cook Hilsa fish on their website, fully ensuring ease and satisfaction.
- Lulu Hypermarket: A reputable retailer in the UAE, Lulu Hypermarket amply stocks cleaned whole Hilsa (Thody) fish in their fresh fish compartment. Customers can buy in 1 kg packs. It is reasonable for people who want to prepare great home dishes.
- Desertcart: This is an online shopping site for those who want to order Hilsa from Bangladesh and have it delivered to their doorstep. Easy access to Bangladeshi Hilsa is now available, as they sell 500 g medium-sized Bangladeshi Hilsa.
Culinary Experiences: Places in Dubai that Serve Ilish
Most of the South Asian restaurants in Dubai include an Ilish specialty dish on their menu from time to time. For those interested in shing, the seafood hobs most likely use the term in different places:
Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant: Bu Qtair was once a small fish shack but has become a resort for anyone looking for seafood in Dubai. While its menu emphasizes local catches, fish enthusiasts will enjoy visiting because of the restaurant’s authentic seafood dishes. It is because of their skill in seafood preparation.
Sallet Al Sayad Seafood Restaurant: It has carved a niche for itself in seafood restaurants and is known for exceptional quality and unparalleled service. They offer a variety of seafood specialties, including Ilish or Ilisi, which may not be readily available. But their supply of Ilish is guaranteed due to their commitment to fresh seafood.
Ilish as a Home Cooked Dish
In Dubai, several outlets provide fresh fish for those who prefer purchasing Ilish for home cooking:
Waterfront Market: The market is situated in Deira, and it acts as a central place for traders of fish, vegetables, and meat. It takes over 120,000 square feet and replaces the old Deira Fish Market while promoting sustainable fishing. It is worth noting that visitors can access a great selection of seafood, which includes the prospect of sourcing Ilish awarded seasonal access.
United Fish: Apart from online orders, they also deal in fish markets across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi. This is important because they supply fresh Hilsa fish and other local varieties to customers with different culinary needs.
Cultural Importance and Cooking Techniques
Ilish fish in Dubai is of great importance and value to the South Asian people. In Bengali culture, this is usually tied to festivals and other special occasions. The most common preparation methods are:
Shorshe Ilish: Mustard gravy sauce over Hilsa fish captures the essence of Bengali cuisine with its rich aroma and sharp taste.
Ilish Pulao: Ilish pulao is a rice pilaf or pulao in which pieces of Hilsa fish are cooked with basmati rice and fragrant spices.
Bhapa Ilish: Ilish fish in Dubai is steamed with spices, retaining moisture while infusing the fish with flavours, making the dish tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Due to the multicultural nature of Dubai, Ilish fish and other Ilish delicacies are available for those seeking familiar flavors or new culinary experiences. From home cooking to fine dining, there is always Ilish fish to enjoy as a true sign of the culinary diversity
FAQs
Is Ilish fish available in Dubai?
Certainly, several retailers as well as online stores sell fresh Hilsa (Ilish) fish in Dubai due to high demand from the South Asian population as well as seafood lovers.
Are there Dubai restaurants that sell Ilish?
Some specific restaurants may not have Ilish readily available on their menus. Seafood restaurants like Bu Qtair and Sallet Al Sayad are popular and may sometimes offer Ilish, depending on the season.
When is the most appropriate time to purchase Ilish fish in Dubai?
Ilish fish has a seasonal peak during the monsoon months in South Asia. It may also be available in Dubai during these times; however, it is wise to check with the local suppliers on stock availability.
How can I guarantee the quality and condition of the Ilish fish?
A reliable supplier ensures that the quality of the fish purchased is not compromised. Additional suppliers such as United Fish and Lulu Hypermarket also guarantee well-stocked, quality fish. Reputable suppliers ensure that quality is maintained to the standard yield.
Are there any Dubai Ilish cooking classes offered in the area?
While Ilish is not widely taught in Dubai, cooking schools and community education programmes teach South Asian cooking classes that include various styles of cooking fish. These techniques can be used for Ilish as well.
