Malayalam Fish Names and English Names
If you have ever been confused about what a fish is called in English when the market vendor says 'Ayala' or 'Neymeen', this guide is for you. Below is a comprehensive list of fish names used in Kozhikode / Calicut markets with their English equivalents and best cooking uses.
Malayalam to English Fish Name List
| Malayalam Name | English Name | Best Cooked As |
|---|---|---|
| Ayala | Indian Mackerel | Fry, Curry |
| Mathi / Chaala | Sardine | Fry, Curry, Theeyal |
| Neymeen | Seer Fish / King Seer | Curry, Fry, Steak |
| Karimeen | Pearl Spot | Fry, Curry, Pollichathu |
| Avoli | Pomfret / Butterfish | Fry, Curry |
| Koduva / Kaala | Sea Bass / Barramundi | Curry, Roast |
| Chemmeen | Prawns / Shrimp | Curry, Fry, Roast |
| Kallumakkaya | Mussels | Fry, Nirachathu, Roast |
| Kanava | Squid / Calamari | Roast, Fry, Curry |
| Njandu | Crab | Curry, Roast |
| Choora / Kera | Tuna | Fry, Curry, Dry |
| Ayikoora | Tuna (small) | Fry |
| Vazhakkal | Barracuda | Fry, Curry |
| Korrameenu / Karutha Maranji | Stingray | Curry |
| Thilopia | Tilapia | Fry, Curry |
| Kari / Thirunni | Catfish | Curry |
| Nangu | Sole Fish / Tongue Sole | Fry |
| Mullan | Mullet | Fry, Curry |
| Vanjaram | King Mackerel / Spanish Mackerel | Fry, Curry |
| Pallathi | Indian Halibut | Fry |
| Paara | Trevally | Fry, Curry |
| Anchovy / Natholi | Anchovy | Fry, Pickle |
| Vatta | Rainbow Sardine / Round Herring | Fry |
| Kananketha | Barracuda (small) | Fry |
| Paaral | Catla (freshwater) | Curry |
| Crab (Njandu) | Blue Swimmer Crab | Curry, Roast |
| Lobster (Konch) | Rock Lobster | Roast, Curry |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Neymeen called in English?
Neymeen is called Seer Fish or King Seer in English. It is also sometimes referred to as Indo-Pacific King Mackerel or Spanish Mackerel depending on the region.
What is Karimeen in English?
Karimeen is Pearl Spot in English. It is the official state fish of Kerala.
What is Mathi called in English?
Mathi is called Sardine in English. The full name is Indian Oil Sardine (Sardinella longiceps).
Can I order fish by Malayalam name from Onsup?
Yes. Just WhatsApp us the Malayalam name of the fish you want — Ayala, Neymeen, Karimeen, Chemmeen etc. — and we will deliver it fresh in Kozhikode.
Order fresh fish or meat for this recipe from Onsup Fresh — cleaned, cut & delivered to your door in Kozhikode.