Saloona Samak Qatariya (Doha Harbor Fish, Tamarind, Okra & Potato Broth) – Authentic Qatar Recipe

Ingredients for Saloona Samak Qatariya (Doha Harbor Fish, Tamarind, Okra & Potato Broth) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) firm kingfish or hamour/grouper fillets, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups tender okra and potatoes, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup ripe plum tomatoes
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with tangy tamarind
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Qatar seasoning (whole dried black lime, turmeric, Qatari bzar, cilantro)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and tangy tamarind for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in whole dried black lime, turmeric, Qatari bzar, cilantro and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Qatar's kitchen.
3. Add firm kingfish or hamour/grouper fillets and tender okra and potatoes, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in ripe plum tomatoes, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.