The lapu lapu fish is one of the most popular and premium fish varieties in the Philippines. Known for its firm texture, sweet flavor, and versatility in cooking, the lapu lapu fish is loved in Filipino households and restaurants. Whether you want to know its English name, price, recipes, or nutrition benefits, this guide covers everything in a natural, human-written tone.
What is Lapu Lapu Fish? (Description & Characteristics)
The lapu lapu fish is a type of grouper known for its mild taste, dense white meat, and beautiful spotted skin. It’s a carnivorous reef fish found in tropical waters across Southeast Asia. Its body is thick, muscular, and perfect for steaming, frying, or baking because it holds its structure well.
Lapu Lapu Fish Characteristics:
- Firm, white flesh
- Mild sweet flavor
- Low fat, high protein
- Ideal for soups, stews, and pan-fried dishes
- Common in Filipino celebrations and seafood restaurants
Lapu Lapu Fish in English
The English name of lapu lapu fish is “grouper.”
Depending on color and size, it may be called:
- Red Grouper
- Black Grouper
- Giant Grouper
Lapu Lapu Fish Scientific Name
The scientific name of lapu lapu fish is Epinephelus spp.
It belongs to the domain Eukaryota, the group that includes all complex living organisms.
Types of Lapu Lapu Fish
Here are the common types of lapu lapu fish you’ll find in markets:
- Red Lapu Lapu Fish – prized for its color and flavor
- Black Lapu Lapu Fish – firm texture, common in restaurants
- Giant Lapu Lapu Fish – extremely large species
- Spotted Grouper – beautifully patterned skin
- Coral Trout – premium and expensive variety
Each type has a slightly different taste and texture, but all are perfect for Filipino cooking.
Lapu Lapu Fish Price
The lapu lapu fish price varies depending on size and freshness.
Generally:
- ₱450 – ₱1,200 per kilo for fresh red or black lapu lapu
- ₱1,500+ per kilo for giant or premium coral trout
The fish is considered high-end because of its taste and low supply.
Lapu Lapu Fish Nutrition Facts & Benefits
The lapu lapu fish is not only delicious but also extremely healthy.
Nutrition Facts (per 100g):
- Calories: 92
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 1.2g
- Omega-3: High
- Vitamins: B6, B12, Niacin
- Minerals: Selenium, Potassium, Magnesium
Lapu Lapu Fish Benefits:
- Supports heart health (omega-3)
- High protein for muscle growth
- Low calorie and low fat
- Good for skin and immune system
- Easily digestible for all ages
Popular Lapu Lapu Fish Recipes (Filipino Style)
Filipinos love the lapu lapu fish because it works well with almost every cooking method. Below are the best recipe styles:
1. Sweet and Sour Lapu Lapu Fish Recipe
This sweet and sour fish lapu lapu style is a favorite in restaurants.
How to cook:
- Fry the whole lapu lapu until golden and crispy.
- Prepare sauce with pineapple, bell peppers, sugar, vinegar, and ketchup.
- Pour the sauce over the fried fish and garnish with onions.
The sweet tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the fish’s firm meat.
2. Fried Lapu Lapu Fish (How to Fry Lapu Lapu Fish)
If you want something crispy and quick, fried lapu lapu fish is the best choice.
Steps:
- Season with salt, pepper, and calamansi.
- Coat lightly with flour.
- Fry in hot oil until skin becomes crispy.
Great with garlic rice and toyomansi.
3. Steamed Lapu Lapu Fish (How to Steam Lapu Lapu Fish)
The lapu lapu steam fish recipe is popular because it highlights the natural flavor.
Instructions:
- Place the fish on a steaming plate.
- Add ginger, onion leeks, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Steam for 10–15 minutes until tender.
This is the healthiest way to cook lapu lapu fish.
4. Baked Lapu Lapu Fish Recipe
A simple but elegant dish:
- Marinate in garlic, butter, lemon, and herbs.
- Wrap in foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Perfect for family dinners or diet meals.
5. Lapu Lapu Fish Recipe (Panlasang Pinoy Style)
The lapu lapu fish recipe Panlasang Pinoy version is usually sautéed with tomatoes, ginger, onion, and fish sauce—very home-style Filipino cooking.
6. Lapu Lapu Fish Soup Recipe / Sinigang
If you want something warm and comforting, try lapu lapu fish soup or lapu lapu fish sinigang.
How to cook lapu lapu fish soup:
- Boil tomatoes, onions, ginger, and tamarind.
- Add the fish and leafy vegetables.
- Simmer until the fish becomes tender.
A perfect rainy-day Filipino comfort food.
Lapu Lapu Fish Dishes You Can Try:
- Steamed with soy & ginger
- Sweet & sour whole fish
- Fried or deep-fried
- Baked in lemon butter
- Grilled over charcoal
- Fish soup or sinigang
- Coconut milk stew (ginataang lapu lapu)
Lapu Lapu Fish Picture / Images (What It Looks Like)
The lapu lapu fish usually has:
- A thick, rounded body
- Brown, red, or black skin
- Spotted or patterned scales
- Large head and mouth
Its appearance makes it easy to recognize in markets and fish stalls.
Lapu Lapu Fish Size
Most lapu lapu fish range from 500g to 3kg, but giant species can grow up to 100kg.
Restaurant-grade sizes are usually between 700g to 1.5kg because they cook evenly.