Mabalah Safi – Recipe for Mabalah Safi – How to Cook Mabalah Safi

Mabalah Safi – Recipe for Mabalah Safi – How to Cook Mabalah Safi

Mabalah Safi, also known as Fish Mabalah, is a popular dish in the Gulf region. Loved for its unique flavor, it’s a favorite among Gulf residents.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, provides a healthy amount of calories, and is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that benefit the body and promote heart health.


Ingredients for Mabalah Safi (Serves Four):

Mabalah Safi


  • 8 Safi fish (rabbitfish).
  • 4 dates.
  • 4 onions, finely chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon of minced ginger.
  • 1 teaspoon of grated garlic.
  • 1 grated green chili.
  • 2 dried black lemons (loomi), pulp only.
  • ¼ cup of chopped parsley.
  • ¼ cup of chopped cilantro.
  • 3 cups of rice.
  • Saffron water (soaked saffron).
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin.
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric.
  • 1 teaspoon of mixed spice (bzar).
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander.
  • 1 teaspoon of cardamom.
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  • 1 teaspoon of red chili powder.
  • Ghee or clarified butter, as needed.

Steps to Cook Mabalah Safi:

  1. Prepare the Fish:

    • Place the fish in a large pot. Add the dates, ginger, garlic, and water. Mix well to combine.
    • Place the pot on medium heat and boil the fish for about 15 minutes.
    • Remove the pot from the heat, debone the fish, and peel off the skin. Set the fish aside on a plate.
  2. Prepare the Sautéed Mix:

    • Heat some oil in a large pan. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they soften and turn golden brown.
    • Add cinnamon, green chili, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
    • Add the cooked fish to the pan, stirring gently to fry it slightly.
    • Mix in all the spices (cumin, turmeric, mixed spice, ground coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and chili powder).
    • Add the chopped parsley and cilantro. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  3. Layer the Rice and Fish:

    • In a large pot, add a layer of oil.
    • Start layering with rice, then a layer of the fish mixture. Repeat the process, finishing with a top layer of fish.
    • Drizzle saffron water over the top layer. Melt some ghee and pour it over the rice and fish.
  4. Cook the Mabalah Safi:

    • Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the dish to cook fully.
  5. Serve:

    • Remove the pot from the heat and gently transfer the Mabalah Safi to a serving dish.
    • Serve it hot and enjoy its rich and flavorful taste with your family.

Bon appétit!

Comments