MAHI BA SOMAGH (SUMAC ROASTED FISH)

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Mahi ba Somagh (Sumac Roasted Fish) image

This flavorful and bright preparation of mahi, which means fish in Persian (not to be confused with mahi-mahi), comes together quickly. In keeping with the sour-leaning Iranian palate, a generous sprinkling of tart sumac and a drizzle of fragrant orange and lime juices coat butterflied whole fish. If your sumac has been languishing in the back of the spice drawer for some time, get a new jar. Over time, sumac loses its fragrance and punchy flavor and becomes bitter and bland. The key to successfully roasting the fish is to remove excess moisture by patting them dry with paper towels. Serve with a side of rice with tahdig, plain steamed rice or oven-baked fries and a simple salad.

Provided by Naz Deravian

Categories     dinner, easy, quick, weeknight, seafood, main course

Time 15m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

2 large branzini or trout (about 1 1/2 pounds each), butterflied, heads and tails kept on if desired (see Tip)
1 medium orange
1 medium lime
1 tablespoon sumac
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
Fresh mint leaves, torn, for serving (optional)

Steps:

  • Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat oven to 450 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Use paper towels to gently pat the fish dry inside and out, and place the fish on the prepared pan.
  • Zest half of the orange directly into a small bowl, then squeeze in the juice from that half (about 3 tablespoons) and the juice from half of the lime (just under 1 tablespoon). Slice the remaining orange and lime halves and set aside for serving. In another small bowl, combine the sumac and turmeric.
  • Drizzle the fish with the olive oil inside and out. Open the fish up like books and evenly sprinkle with the pepper and salt. (If using fine salt or coarse kosher salt, use 3/4 teaspoon.) Arrange the open fish in a single layer, angling and overlapping slightly if needed to fit. Drizzle on the citrus mixture and then dust with the sumac mixture to cover most of the flesh.
  • Roast the fish until flaky and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Garnish with the reserved orange slices, lime slices and fresh mint, and serve.

Michael-allen Over by
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I've made this recipe several times now and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The fish is always cooked perfectly and the sumac marinade is so flavorful. I highly recommend it!


Barankhanpahtan Barankhanpahtan
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This recipe is a keeper! The fish was moist and flaky, and the sumac marinade was the perfect complement. I served it with a side of roasted vegetables and it was a hit with my family.


Ahmed Almadani
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I'm not a big fan of fish, but I actually really enjoyed this dish. The sumac marinade was tangy and flavorful, and the fish was cooked perfectly. I'll definitely be making it again!


yemen yemen
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Overall, I thought this recipe was pretty good. The fish was cooked well and the sumac marinade was flavorful. However, I would have liked it to be a bit spicier.


Sabbir Munshi
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This recipe was a disaster! The fish was overcooked and the marinade was too sour. I won't be making it again.


Ayo Bose
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I found the recipe to be a bit bland. I added some extra spices and herbs to give it more flavor.


mark dy
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The fish was a bit dry, but the sumac marinade was delicious. I think I'll try it again with a different type of fish.


Mirlande Duret
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Mahi-ba-somagh is a budget-friendly dish that doesn't compromise on taste. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, making it a great option for everyday meals or special occasions.


Saleh Muhammad
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This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's quick and easy to prepare, and the results are always impressive. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.


olivia olivia
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I love the unique flavor that sumac adds to this dish. It's a perfect balance of tanginess and earthiness. I also appreciate that the recipe is customizable, allowing me to adjust the amount of spices to my liking.


debra davis
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I'm always looking for healthy and flavorful recipes, and this one fits the bill perfectly. The fish is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and the sumac marinade is rich in antioxidants. It's a win-win!


lynet roy
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As a beginner cook, I found this recipe to be very easy to follow. The instructions were clear and concise, and the end result was a delicious and impressive dish. I highly recommend it!


Onalenna Hlabano
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I followed the recipe exactly and the fish turned out amazing! The crispy skin and the tender, flaky flesh were perfection. My family loved it!


Ashley julian silva
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This recipe was a hit! The fish was cooked perfectly and the sumac marinade added a wonderful flavor. I will definitely be making this again.