Masgouf
Grilled Carp
Yes, with a tweak: request no rice, no bread, and specifically ask to avoid sugary marinades. About 8g net carbs per serving.
What it is
A traditional Iraqi dish of slow-grilled carp, often seasoned with salt, lemon, and sometimes tamarind or other spices. The fish is butterflied and cooked vertically over an open fire, resulting in crispy skin and tender flesh.
Key ingredients
Whole carp, olive oil, salt, lemon, sometimes tamarind or other spices (e.g., cumin, turmeric).
How to make it keto
Request no rice, no bread, and specifically ask to avoid sugary marinades. Opt for simple salt and lemon seasoning if possible. If served with a side salad, ask for dressing on the side and limit tomatoes.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
المسكوف من فضلك. بدون رز أو خبز أو تتبيلة سكرية. فقط ملح وليمون. لو فيه سلطة، الصوص على جنب وطماطم قليلة.
Masgouf, please. No rice, no bread, and no sugary marinade. Just salt and lemon seasoning. If a salad comes, dressing on the side and limit tomatoes.
Watch out for
Marinades might contain hidden sugar or high-carb ingredients like tamarind paste. Traditionally served with high-carb sides such as rice and bread. Salad could have sugary dressing or too many tomatoes.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Iraqi menuAll 262 Iraqi dishes ›
