Dubai’s Love for Fish: How to Make Traditional Hamour Dishes

Introduction

Dubai is a paradise for seafood lovers, and among all the delicious options, Hamour (local grouper) holds a special place in Emirati cuisine. This flavorful fish is celebrated for its tender meat, mild taste, and versatility in traditional recipes. Whether you are a local or a visitor, learning to prepare authentic Hamour dishes connects you with Dubai’s rich culinary heritage. Below, we dive into the best methods for preparing traditional Hamour dishes, with detailed instructions and helpful tips.

The Significance of Hamour in Dubai’s Culinary Scene

Hamour is one of the most popular fish varieties in the UAE, prized for its delicate texture and mild flavor. Found in the Arabian Gulf, this fish has been a staple in Emirati households and fine-dining restaurants for generations. In Dubai, you can find fresh Hamour at local seafood markets, including the Fish Market Dubai, where quality seafood is readily available. Emiratis traditionally prepare Hamour through grilling, frying, or slow-cooking it with fragrant spices, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Traditional Hamour Dishes

Cooking Hamour the authentic Emirati way requires patience and a blend of aromatic spices. Below, we break down three traditional methods for preparing Hamour: Grilled Hamour, Hamour Machbous (spiced rice dish), and Hamour Curry.

Grilled Hamour

Grilled Hamour is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this fish’s natural flavors. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients:

1 whole Hamour fish (cleaned and descaled)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp garlic paste
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Make diagonal cuts on the fish for better seasoning absorption.
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Coat the fish with the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Grill for 7-10 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Hamour Machbous (Spiced Rice Dish)

Machbous is a beloved Emirati dish that combines Hamour with fragrant basmati rice and rich spices.

Ingredients:

1 kg Hamour fillet (cut into chunks)
2 cups basmati rice
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 tomatoes (pureed)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp cardamom powder
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp ghee or butter
4 cups fish stock

Instructions:

Heat ghee in a large pot, sauté onions until golden.
Add garlic and tomatoes, cooking for 3 minutes.
Mix in turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper.
Add fish chunks and cook for 5 minutes.
Pour in fish stock, then add basmati rice.
Cover and simmer until the rice is tender.
Fluff the rice, garnish, and serve warm.

Hamour Curry

This rich and creamy curry brings out the best in Hamour.

Ingredients:

500g Hamour fillets
1 cup coconut milk
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
2 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until soft.
Add ginger, garlic, and curry powder, stirring for a minute.
Toss in tomatoes and cook until soft.
Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
Add Hamour fillets and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Serve with steamed rice.

Why Hamour is the Perfect Choice for Seafood Lovers

Dubai’s Fish In Dubai scene is vast, but Hamour remains the top choice for locals. Its firm yet flaky texture makes it ideal for various cooking styles. Whether grilled, curried, or served with rice, Hamour embodies the essence of traditional Emirati cuisine.