Omani Culinary Gems: How Shuwa Samak and Ginger Halwa Can Elevate Your Business’s Menu Offering
Oman’s vibrant culinary tradition is highlighted by two signature dishes: shuwa samak and Omani ginger halwa. Shuwa samak is a slow-baked, spiced fish wrapped in banana leaves, representing the coastal seafood practices of Oman, enriched with fragrant spices. Omani ginger halwa, on the other hand, is a silky dessert that melds fresh ginger, saffron, and nuts — both quintessential examples of Omani hospitality. These dishes are crafted with care by Demi Chef Abdul Majeed al Khamisi at the Grand Millennium Muscat, offering a genuine taste of Oman’s gastronomic culture.
Signature Main Dish: Shuwa Samak
- Cuisine: Omani coastal traditional
- Course: Main dish
- Serves: 4
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients for Fish Marinade:
- 1 whole kingfish (approximately 1.5 kg), cleaned and scaled
- 2 tbsp Omani mixed spice blend
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder (to taste)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 tbsp Omani date syrup (or honey)
- 4 tbsp olive oil or Omani coconut oil
- Salt to taste
For Wrapping and Baking:
- 2 large banana leaves (or baking parchment, if unavailable)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh coriander leaves
- 1 lemon, sliced
Method:
- Prepare the marinade: Combine all spices, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, date syrup, and oil in a bowl. Adjust salt to taste.
- Marinate the fish: Make deep slits on both sides of the fish. Rub the marinade generously over and inside the fish. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the wrap: Soften the banana leaves over a flame or in hot water. Layer the onions, coriander, and lemon slices, followed by the marinated fish.
- Wrap and bake: Fold the leaves to seal the fish, secure with twine, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40–45 minutes.
- Serve: Unwrap the dish at the table for an aromatic presentation. Serve with saffron rice, lime wedges, and Omani salad.
Omani Ginger Halwa
- Cuisine: Omani traditional sweet
- Course: Dessert
- Serves: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup corn flour, dissolved in 1 cup water
- ¼ cup rosewater
- ½ tsp saffron strands, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger juice
- ¼ cup ghee (clarified butter)
- ¼ cup Omani date syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp toasted cashew nuts
- 2 tbsp raisins
- 1 tbsp slivered almonds
Method:
- Prepare the base: In a heavy-bottomed pan, dissolve the sugar in water and bring to a gentle boil until it thickens slightly.
- Add corn flour mixture: Gradually stir in the dissolved corn flour, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Flavor the halwa: Incorporate rosewater, saffron water, ginger juice, date syrup, and cardamom. Cook over low heat until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
- Incorporate ghee: Slowly mix in the ghee until the halwa begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the nuts and raisins. Pour the mixture into a greased dish, allowing it to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Demi Chef Abdul Majeed al Khamisi brings over eight years of experience in Arabic cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional Omani and Gulf flavors with contemporary techniques. Renowned for his meticulous presentation and dedication to authenticity, Chef Abdul Majeed’s creations honor the depth and richness of Oman’s culinary heritage. “His respect for tradition sets him apart,” says Kithsiri Silva Uduwarage, Executive Chef at Grand Millennium Muscat. “His dishes pay homage to Arabic roots while showcasing modern finesse, making his contributions to our menu truly inspiring.”
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s culinary richness, exemplified by dishes like shuwa samak and ginger halwa, presents significant opportunities for businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Investing in authentic culinary experiences could attract both local and international tourists, enhancing Oman’s gastronomic tourism appeal. However, entrepreneurs should be wary of maintaining authenticity amidst modernization, as this will be key to standing out in a competitive market.
