Trying To Identify This Fish

[Lopburi99]

I have been told a certain fish sold at vendor markets here in Lopburi (and elsewhere I assume) is high in Omega 3 oil content. The shiny looking fish is about 5-9" long and it's head is always pointing down, very distinctive and odd looking. I've heard it referred to as 'ba tu' but I can't find anything about on the web. I was told it was a good substitute for fresh salmon, which is an Omega 3 rich fish. I can't even find a photo of one anywhere so unless somebody posts one I'll take a photo the next time I am at the market. Once I identify it I can check into it's nutritional value.

I've never seen it live or being prepared at the market, it is always packaged in plastic film on styrofoam about 2-3 per package.

I just found out my favorite fish which we have been buying fresh at market and eating almost daily is actually (red) tilapia. Unfortunately I have read from various sources tilapia is higher in Omega 6 (not the good Omega) than it is in Omega 3. It is also rated high in cholesterol, and if that isn't bad enough, one source claims it has blood clotting issues - definitely NOT the fish for me with my heart disease! Therefore I am trying to find out more about batu.

Edited October 17, 2011 by Lopburi99

[GarryP]

You are talking about Thai mackerel or Pla Tu Thai or ปลาทูไทย.

[Lopburi99]

You are talking about Thai mackerel or Pla Tu Thai or ปลาทูไทย.

Yep, that's it. Thanks Garry.

Trying to post a photo....

Edited October 17, 2011 by Lopburi99

[Lopburi99]

I'll try once more to post the photo.

Now to find nutritional info for it.

Edited October 17, 2011 by Lopburi99

[Gonsalviz]

When the head is bent down like that it is salted and steamed. If you want fresh you'll have to ask for it.

[Lopburi99]

Thanks Gonsalviz -- didn't know that. Sure, we want fresh sometimes.

BTW, if anybody wants to know, this fish is technically named Rastrelliger brachysoma.

Edited October 18, 2011 by Lopburi99

[notmyself]

Been eating that fish for years. Love it.

[KRS1]

Try Saba fish also, very tasty and high oil content. Meat is very firm almost like a land animal, with thick bones so no chance of swallowing any.

its the silver and black striped fish that's usually about 8".