Entree: Saudi Arabia – Eastern Province – سمك مشوي ➤ Samak Mashwi (Coastal Saudi-style grilled fish marinated with Middle Eastern spices and citrus)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 20 min

Additional 30 min

Total 1 hr 5 min

Ingredients

- 2 whole red snapper, approx. 1.5 lb (680 g) each, gutted and scaled
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) olive oil
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) tomato paste
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) ground cumin
- 2 tsp (10 ml) ground coriander
- 1 tsp (5 ml) ground turmeric
- 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (5 ml) baharat spice blend or 1 tsp (5 ml) allspice + ½ tsp (2.5 ml) ground black pepper
- 2 tsp (10 ml) kosher salt
- 1 tsp (5 ml) ground black pepper
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped, about ½ cup (15 g)
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped, about ½ cup (15 g)
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings, about 1 ¼ cup (150 g)
- 1 large tomato, sliced, about 1 cup (180 g)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Optional: banana leaves or foil for wrapping

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, tomato paste, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, baharat, salt, and black pepper into a smooth marinade. Stir in chopped cilantro and parsley.
2. Pat fish dry and score both sides with 2–3 diagonal cuts. Rub marinade inside the cavity and over the exterior, working into the scores. Let marinate 30–60 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Prepare a grill for medium-high direct heat (or preheat broiler). If using banana leaves, briefly soften them over the heat and wrap the fish; otherwise oil the grill grates well.
4. Arrange sliced onion and tomato on the grill or atop the leaves, place the fish on top, and grill 6–8 minutes per side for 1.5 lb (680 g) fish, until flesh flakes easily and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Baste with reserved marinade once or twice during grilling, and move fish to indirect heat if exterior chars too quickly. Remove and rest 3–5 minutes.
6. Serve whole or filleted with grilled onions, tomatoes, and lemon wedges. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro.