Samak Maqli (Keto Style)
Pan-Fried Spiced Fish Fillet (with Keto Sides, No Rice)
Yes, with a tweak: request no breading or flour on the fish. About 3g net carbs per serving, lower than 9 in 10 Saudi dishes.
What it is
Fresh fish fillet (e.g., Hamour, Najil) lightly seasoned with Middle Eastern spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric) and pan-fried until golden and crispy.
Key ingredients
Fish fillet, olive oil/vegetable oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper.
How to make it keto
CRITICAL: Request no breading or flour on the fish. Ensure it's pan-fried in oil only. Ask for no rice or bread. Request a simple side salad (e.g., cucumber, tomato, lettuce with olive oil and lemon) or grilled low-carb vegetables instead of carb-heavy sides.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
سمك مقلي، بدون تغميس أو طحين، ومقلي بالزيت فقط. بدون أرز أو خبز. مع سلطة بسيطة (خيار، طماطم، خس) بزيت الزيتون والليمون، أو خضروات مشوية قليلة الكربوهيدرات.
Samak Maqli: No breading/flour, pan-fried in oil only. No rice/bread. Serve with simple green salad (olive oil/lemon) or grilled low-carb vegetables.
Watch out for
The main risk is breading/flour used for frying (must omit). Universally served with rice or bread, which must be omitted. Some restaurants might use sugary marinades or sauces.
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 Saudi menuAll 156 Saudi dishes ›
