What Is Bombay Duck?
A type of lizardfish, often dried and salted, known for its strong, pungent, and savory umami flavor, especially in Indian cuisine.
What Does Bombay Duck Taste Like?
Bombay Duck has a salty, umami, pungent, briny taste with strongly fishy, pungent, briny aromas.
- Taste
- Salty, Umami, Pungent, Briny
- Texture
- Soft, Flaky (fresh); Crispy, Chewy (fried dried)
- Aroma
- Strongly Fishy, Pungent, Briny
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 100 gChef’s Secret
When frying dried Bombay Duck, ensure it is thoroughly crisp to enjoy its unique texture and minimize its intense aroma. Soaking can reduce saltiness.
Bombay Duck Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Bombay Duck is Dried Anchovies, used at a 1:1 (adjust for intensity) ratio. Offers similar intense salty umami and can be crisped.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Anchovies Best | 1:1 (adjust for intensity) | Offers similar intense salty umami and can be crisped. |
| Fish Sauce | 1:1 (use sparingly) | Adds intense umami and saltiness to dishes, liquid form. |
| Dried Shrimp | 1:1 (crushed) | Provides a different seafood umami and texture, slightly sweet. |
| Cured Sardines | 1:1 | Similar strong fish flavor, but typically oil-packed and less pungent. |
How to Choose & Store Bombay Duck
- For dried Bombay Duck, check for a clean, uniform texture and absence of excessive moisture or mold.
- Fresh is rare outside of specific regions.
What Pairs Well With Bombay Duck?
- Curries
- fried as a crispy snack
- stir-fries
- chutneys
- served with rice and dal
- used as a flavor enhancer in various Indian dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Bombay Duck taste like?
Salty, Umami, Pungent, Briny Strongly Fishy, Pungent, Briny
What is a good substitute for Bombay Duck?
The best substitute is Dried Anchovies (1:1 (adjust for intensity)). Offers similar intense salty umami and can be crisped.
How do you choose and store Bombay Duck?
For dried Bombay Duck, check for a clean, uniform texture and absence of excessive moisture or mold. Fresh is rare outside of specific regions.