Samak Mofa is a delightful and flavorful Saudi Arabian dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region. This traditional grilled fish recipe is a testament to the exquisite flavors of the Arabian Gulf, where fresh fish takes center stage. In this article, we will guide you through an authentic Samak Mofa recipe, inviting you to embark on a culinary journey to experience the deliciousness of this beloved Saudi Arabian delicacy.

Ingredients:

1 whole fish (such as red snapper or sea bass), cleaned and scaled

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Salt to taste

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the fish

Make a few diagonal slashes on both sides of the fish. This will help the marinade penetrate and infuse the fish with flavor. Place the fish in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it coats the fish evenly. Massage the marinade into the slashes and the cavity of the fish. Cover the dish and let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Grill the fish

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the fish from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the size of the fish. Flip the fish carefully to avoid sticking or breaking. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a golden char on the outside.

Step 4: Serve and garnish

Transfer the grilled fish to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, allowing each person to squeeze lemon juice over their portion according to taste.

Optional: Customization and Serving Tips

Serve the Samak Mofa with fragrant saffron rice or Arabic flatbread. Accompany the dish with traditional Saudi Arabian sauces like tahini sauce or muhammara for added flavor.

With this authentic Samak Mofa recipe, you can recreate the magic of this beloved Saudi Arabian grilled fish dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of aromatic spices, tender fish, and the smoky char from the grill will transport your taste buds to the Arabian Gulf. Experience the rich culinary heritage of Saudi Arabia as you savor the deliciousness of Samak Mofa, a true delight for seafood lovers.