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Gulf-Spiced Grilled Hammour with Dried Lime

By the Healthy Plate team

Gulf-Spiced Grilled Fish

Grilled fish is one of the healthiest Gulf dishes. Instead of frying, we season it with Gulf spices and dried lime and roast it so it stays tender and full of flavour.

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Why fish?

  • High protein, low fat
  • Omega-3 for heart health
  • Cooks in under 20 minutes

Gulf-Spiced Grilled Fish

10 minPrep
20 minGrill
2Servings
380kcal

Ingredients

  • 400 g hammour (grouper) fillet
  • 1 tbsp Gulf spice mix
  • Ground dried lime (loomi)
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Courgette, peppers, onion

Method

  1. Mix spices, loomi, garlic, lemon and oil.
  2. Coat the fish and rest 15 minutes.
  3. Roast with the vegetables 20 minutes at 200°C.
  4. Serve with brown rice or salad.
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Tip

Don't flip the fish too often or it will break apart.

Best fish for grilling in the Gulf

  • Hammour (grouper): firm and doesn't flake apart
  • Sha'ri (emperor): mild, family-friendly
  • Kingfish: rich in omega-3 with bold flavour
  • Salmon: easy to find, higher in fat

How to tell fish is cooked

Fish is done when it turns from translucent to opaque white and flakes easily with a fork. Don't overcook — fish dries out fast. Rule of thumb: about 10 minutes per 2.5 cm thickness.

Quick homemade Gulf spice mix

Mix 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tbsp paprika, ½ tsp black pepper and ground dried lime. Store in a jar for fish and chicken.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I eat fish?

General guidance is at least two servings a week, ideally one being oily fish like kingfish or salmon.

Can I make it in an air fryer?

Yes — 10–12 minutes at 200°C depending on thickness, with a light spray of oil.

Why does my fish fall apart?

Usually too much flipping or a delicate species. Choose hammour and flip only once.

Is frozen fish healthy?

Yes — flash-frozen fish keeps its nutrients. Thaw it overnight in the fridge.

⚠️ For general education only. If you have a health condition or allergy, consult your doctor.