Sardine Meshwiya / Maqliya (Grilled or Pan-Fried Sardines)
Moroccan Grilled or Pan-Fried Sardines
Yes, keto as served. About 1g net carbs per serving, lower than 9 in 10 Moroccan dishes.
What it is
Fresh whole sardines, often marinated with chermoula (a blend of garlic, herbs, and spices), then either grilled over charcoal until smoky or pan-fried in olive oil until crispy and golden.
Key ingredients
Fresh whole sardines, chermoula (garlic, cilantro, parsley, cumin, paprika, olive oil, lemon juice), salt, pepper. Frying oil (typically olive oil) if pan-fried.
Optional tweaks
If ordering 'Maqliya' (fried), ensure only olive oil or another keto-friendly oil is used, and no breading is applied. Omit any bread, rice, or carb-heavy sides.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
إذا طلبت السردين المقلية، من فضلك تُقلى فقط بزيت الزيتون أو زيت الكيتو، وبدون تغطية بالخبز. ومن فضلك بدون خبز، أرز أو أي إضافات كربوهيدراتية.
If I order Sardine Maqliya, please fry only in olive oil or keto oil, with no breading. No bread, rice, or carb sides, please.
Watch out for
Breading if fried (uncommon for traditional Moroccan sardines but worth confirming). Lemon juice adds minimal carbs. Ensure no sugary glaze or sauce.
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.
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