Fish Tikka
Dubai Seafood • Dubai
About Fish Tikka
Marinated fish cubes grilled in the tandoor.
How to Make Fish Tikka (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Fish Tikka is a beloved seafood dish in Dubai, celebrated for its aromatic spices and tender, juicy texture. As a staple in Dubai’s bustling dining scene, Fish Tikka is often enjoyed in upscale hotel restaurants, laid-back beach clubs, and even during Ramadan iftar gatherings. This dish is a nod to the city’s rich Emirati and Levantine culinary heritage, where fresh seafood and bold spices play a central role. Grilled to perfection, Fish Tikka offers a lighter alternative to fried fish, making it a favorite among health-conscious diners and those seeking authentic Dubai flavors. In Dubai’s vibrant food culture, Fish Tikka is often served alongside classic mezze platters, fragrant rice, or with a simple salad. Its smoky aroma and zesty marinade make it a crowd-pleaser at business lunches and festive family dinners alike. The dish’s popularity is a testament to Dubai’s love of seafood, especially given the city’s proximity to the Arabian Gulf. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced fish and a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and tradition, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Dubai cuisine.
Ingredients(for 2 skewers (approx. 120g cooked fish per serving))
- 250g Fresh hammour fillet (local Gulf fish, boneless, skinless)
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat plain yogurt (laban)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- 2 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground turmeric (kurkum)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cumin (kamoun)
- 1 teaspoon Ground coriander (kuzbara)
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon Olive oil (zeit zaytoun)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Cut the hammour fillet into 2.5cm cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
3 minutes
Ensure fish pieces are uniform for even grilling.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4 minutes
Whisk until the marinade is smooth and well-blended.
- 3
Add the fish cubes to the marinade, coating each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Longer marination (up to 2 hours) intensifies flavor.
- 4
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush with olive oil.
2 minutes
Make sure the grill is hot to prevent sticking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Fish Tikka recipe is grilled instead of fried, drastically reducing unhealthy fats and calories. The marinade uses low-fat yogurt, boosting protein and gut-friendly probiotics while keeping saturated fat to a minimum. Fresh herbs and spices add flavor without extra sodium or additives. As a result, this dish is heart-friendly, supports weight management, and provides sustained energy—making it a smart, healthy option for anyone seeking authentic Dubai flavors without compromising nutrition.
Fish Tikka is a nutrient-dense dish, rich in high-quality protein (21g per serving) and low in carbohydrates (only 2g). Hammour fish provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. The use of low-fat yogurt adds probiotics and calcium, while the blend of spices like turmeric and ginger offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. With only 150 calories per serving and minimal added fat, this dish fits easily into calorie-controlled diets and offers a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh, local hammour for the most authentic taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve with a wedge of fresh lemon and a side of Arabic salad for a complete Dubai meal.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Fish Tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan or oven to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the fish from drying out.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 150.0 kcal |
| Protein | 21.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2.0 g |
| Total Fat | 6.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Fish Tikka is a DubaiCalorie priority food for Dubai dining, UAE portions and local lifestyle tracking.
