Grilled Fish with Somali Spices

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the German Steckerlfisch with the bold flavors of Somali cuisine. The original dish is typically seasoned with simple herbs and spices, while our version incorporates a blend of Somali spices to create a more complex and aromatic flavor profile. Additionally, the grilling technique remains the same, but the choice of spices and marinade ingredients is tailored to Somali cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Steckerlfisch, so you can check it out.

• 2 whole fish (such as red snapper or tilapia), cleaned and scaled 2 whole fish (such as red snapper or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml) 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5g) 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5g)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (5g) 1 teaspoon ground coriander (5g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g) 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (2.5g) 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (2.5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.5g) 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.5g)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Make diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish, allowing the marinade to penetrate.
3. 3.
   Rub the marinade all over the fish, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
4. 4.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Place the marinated fish on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and has a nice char.
6. 6.
   Remove the fish from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Ensure the fish is fresh and of high quality for the best flavor. If red snapper or tilapia is not available, you can use any firm white fish.
• Somali spices — If you can't find specific Somali spices, you can create a substitute by combining equal parts ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the fish in the marinade overnight will intensify the flavors.
• Serve the grilled fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
• If grilling is not an option, you can also bake the marinated fish in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Fish with Somali Spices as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs well with Somali flatbread or rice.

Presentation advice

Place the grilled fish on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve it whole. This presentation showcases the beautiful charred skin and allows guests to appreciate the whole fish.