Masgouf

Iraq

About Masgouf

Masgouf is Iraq's national dish: a whole freshwater fish, usually carp, split open, seasoned and slowly grilled upright next to an open fire.

The fish is butterflied, seasoned with salt, tamarind, turmeric and olive oil, and placed on stakes around a fire of apricot or other fruit wood. The slow cooking gives it a smoky flavor.

Masgouf is a tradition in Baghdad, especially along Abu Nuwas Street on the banks of the Tigris River. It is served with flatbread, onions, tomatoes, pickles and lemon.

Ingredients

• carp
• tamarind
• tomatoes
• onions
• turmeric
• salt
• olive oil
• flatbread