Ayala is a saltwater fish found in the Indian and West Pacific seas' warm shallow waters. Mackerel is a popular and commonly consumed fish in South and Southeast Asia countries, and it’s most widespread in India's coastal belts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. It is also the most often eaten fish in India.


The phrase "mackerel fish" refers to a group of more than 30 fish species, most of which are members of the Scombridae family. The mackerel fish is known as bangada in various regions of the world. These fish like to spawn and eat in coastal locations and may be found in tropical and temperate climates.


Mackerel fish congregate in big schools, making them a convenient target for commercial fishers. As a result, mackerel is one of the most popular fish, especially in North America. These fish, ranging in size from 20 to 200 cm, have different morphological traits, but they all have a comparable flavor and nutritional profile.


It is usually a meaty fish, making it one of the most popular dinner additions. The Ayala fish's head is longer than its body depth, and the Mackerel fish grows to 25 centimeters (9.8 inches) long. This fish feeds on shrimp and larvae.


Ayala or Indian Mackerel is a nutritious fish that people of all ages may eat daily. One of the warnings is that because Ayala contains methylmercury, pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid it. It has the potential to impair a child's growing neurological system.


This fish is used in various cuisines, including Ayala Fry and Ayala Curry. The fish fry is made by marinating it in spices and deep or shallow frying it in coconut oil. Ayala Mulakittathu is a fiery crimson curry with a kick, and coconut milk is used to make authentic Ayala Coconut curry.


Nutritional Facts & Values of Indian Mackerel:


Mackerel is high in omega-3 fatty acids and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

  • Calories - 189 Kcal
  • Total fat- 11.9g
  • Carbohydrates - 0 g
  • Sodium - 89 mg
  • Protein - 19 g
  • Carbs - 1g
  • Potassium - 306mg
  • Fiber - 0 g

Health Benefits of eating Ayila Fish


Hair health, skin health, reducing age-related macular degeneration, strengthening the immune system, decreasing cholesterol levels, preventing chronic illness, and promoting bone health are some of the health advantages of mackerel fish.

  1. Skin Rejuvenation Mackerel salmon, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids and selenium, may be able to meet all of your skincare requirements. These compounds may function as antioxidants in the body, reducing oxidative stress and the negative effects of free radicals, which are natural byproducts of cellular metabolism. They can also aid in the reduction of wrinkles and age spots, as well as the relief of inflammatory illnesses like psoriasis and eczema.
  2. Hair Treatments Protein, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for hair health, and they may all be found in mackerel fish. Adding these nutrients to your diet daily can help enhance the shine and appearance of your hair, strengthen the hair strands, and reduce the impacts of scalp diseases like dandruff.
  3. Reduce Cholesterol Levels Mackerel fish, which has high omega-3 fatty acids, may help regulate cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol and boosting HDL cholesterol levels. It may minimize your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart disease by reducing the amount of cholesterol oxidized and deposited in the arteries as plaque.
  4. Bone Mineral Density (BMD) measures how healthy your bones are Copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and iron are minerals found in mackerel fish and are connected to bone density. You may avoid the beginning of osteoporosis by eating this fish regularly, keeping you feeling young and powerful as you age.
  5. Cognition Enhancement The high quantities of omega-3 fatty acids in mackerel, especially DHA, might indicate better cognitive function and a decreased risk of neurodegenerative illness. These chemicals' anti-inflammatory characteristics may help prevent plaque development, which commonly precedes the onset of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease symptoms.
  6. Immunity Booster Mackerel fish are recognized for their immune-boosting properties despite their low vitamin C content. One of the distinctive components of mackerel fish is coenzyme Q10, which is linked to infection prevention and increases the body's fight against oxidative stress. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been linked to reducing inflammation, putting the immune system under unneeded pressure.
  7. Weight Loss Assist Although mackerel fish has a high-calorie content (almost 250 per fillet), it also has a high protein content, increasing metabolism. High-protein meals are also known for being full, which may help you avoid overeating and stay under your daily calorie limits.
  8. Could Aid in the Management of Diabetes Monounsaturated fatty acids in mackerel may be associated with better blood sugar management and insulin resistance. It is great news for people with diabetes and anyone at risk of getting it, as it can help control blood sugar levels.
  9. Reduce Your Chances of Developing Macular Degeneration Omega-3-rich fish, such as mackerel, may be the greatest meal for your eyes, according to research. It may help avoid eye damage caused by diabetes, which typically results in diabetic retinopathy. Studies have also revealed a link between blindness and diabetes, suggesting that the two may go hand in hand.

Recipe: Ayala Red Curry


To make Ayala Red Curry, you will need these ingredients:

  • 1 kg of fish, preferably mackerel / Ayala cut into medium size pieces
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 inch of ginger, chopped
  • 5-6 garlic, chopped
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves
  • 1/4 tsp of fenugreek seeds
  • 1 tsp of mustard seeds
  • 2 Tbsp of Kashmiri chilly powder
  • 1 tsp of coriander powder
  • 2-3 tsp of hot red chilly powder
  • 1 tsp of turmeric powder
  • 2-3 pieces of fish tamarind / gambooge
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 Tbsp of oil, preferably coconut

Instructions to cook Ayila Curry or Kanangeluthi Curry


Step 1: For 15 minutes, marinate the fish (Ayala) with half of the turmeric and salt.


Step 2: Set aside after soaking the tamarind in warm water for 15 minutes.


Step 3: Pour half of the oil into a heated skillet and add the ginger, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is transparent.


Step 4: To produce a paste, combine the chili powder, turmeric, and coriander powder in a small dish with a little water.


Steo 5: Stir in the paste mentioned above with the onion mixture until the masala releases oil.


Step 6: Crush the onion mixture to a smooth paste in a food processor.


Step 7: In the same pan, heat the remaining oil, sputter the mustard seeds, add the fenugreek seeds and curry leaves and cook for 30 seconds.


Step 8: Return the ground masala to the pan with just enough water to cover the Ayala (mackerel) pieces and bring it to a boil.


Step 9: Now add the fish (Ayala), salt, and tamarind juice, as well as the water, and cook for 15 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked. The Ayala curry is finished.


Note: Ayala (fish) curry should not be served immediately, and allow it to sit for at least 1-2 hours for the best flavor. The greatest way to enjoy Ayala curry is to eat it the next day.


With you ordering your delicacies from Chennai Meats, you not ensure one or two but numerous benefits for yourself.

  1. The meat we provide is 100% chemical-free and with no added preservatives.
  2. You don't have to wait for ages for your meat to be delivered; you will receive them by 8:00 am -11:00 am. Great? Isn't it?
  3. You don't have to worry about leakage or spill from Chennai Meat packages.
  4. Every product is stored in our cold storage until your doorstep ensuring freshness and utmost hygiene.
  5. You can store the fish as it is for the next day in deep freezing without any fear of spoiling it.
  6. You can file your complaint 24*7 on our helpline number. We will always be happy to help.
  7. Fresh and new fish from Rameshwaram, Kasimedu (we are catching the fish from PiperBoat) are waiting for you.
  8. All prices are inclusive of cleaning, degutting, and cutting. All seafood will be weighed before gutting and cutting.
  9. Chennai Meats provides you with the best rates in the market. (In your budget) With special discounts almost every day.

Frequently Ordered with Indian Mackerel Fish

Buy Fresh Seer Fish Online
30% off
Seer Fish9-10 pieces 488 375
400 - 520 gms Gross weight 380 - 420 gms Net weight

Whether you like a batter-fried meal or a power-packed, classic seafood pleasure rich in herbs, you should try Vanjaram

  • Vanjaram
  • Neymeen
  • Chepa
Buy Fresh Red Snapper Online
40% off
Red Snapper12-14 pieces 273 195
470 - 520 gms Gross weight 310 - 420 gms Net weight

Sankara has a mellow flavor and a delicate, soft texture, perfect for curries, fried dishes, tawa fry and grilled dishes.

  • Sankara
  • Thundava
  • Chembali
Buy Black Pomfret Fish Online
25% off
Black Pomfret Vavvaal6-8 pieces 546 390
420 - 600 gms Gross weight 380 - 430 gms Net weight

Ideal for skin-on pan-frying, baking, poaching, or steaming whole & is a high-protein, omega-3-fatty-acid-rich fish.

  • Karu Vavvaal
  • Karutha Akkoli