Delight your taste buds with this Paleo Masgouf—an inspired take on Iraq's iconic grilled fish dish, tailored for a paleo lifestyle. Featuring whole freshwater fish like carp or catfish, this recipe highlights smoky, charred flavors achieved through a simple yet aromatic marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, and freshly grated garlic. The fish is grilled to perfection, locking in moisture and infusing every bite with vibrant spices. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh dill and parsley and served alongside zesty lemon wedges, this healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free dish is a feast both for the eyes and the palate. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a hearty dinner, Paleo Masgouf showcases how tradition and wholesome eating come together beautifully!
Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
Using a sharp knife, make deep diagonal cuts across each side of the fish, ensuring they reach the bone. This allows the seasoning to penetrate and cook the fish evenly.
Juice one lemon and mix it with olive oil, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Grate the garlic cloves into the mixture.
Rub the marinade all over the fish, ensuring the cuts are filled with the mixture. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Place the fish directly on the grill skin-side down. Let it cook for about 12 minutes, then gently turn and cook the other side for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking the fish.
While the fish is grilling, chop the fresh dill and parsley. Slice the second lemon into wedges.
Once cooked, remove the fish from the grill and sprinkle with fresh dill and parsley.
Serve the Paleo Masgouf hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Calories |
1656 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 95.0 g | 122% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.6 g | 93% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 635 mg | 212% | |
| Sodium | 2891 mg | 126% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 27.4 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 171.8 g | 344% | |
| Vitamin D | 22.7 mcg | 113% | |
| Calcium | 456 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 19.6 mg | 109% | |
| Potassium | 3969 mg | 84% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.