Unlocking Investment Opportunities: How Oman’s Coastal Culinary Heritage Can Boost Your Business

• By Saud Al Ansari
• February 28, 2026February 28, 2026
• Omani Cuisine Ramadhan Seafood
• With 0 comments

During Ramadan, as the call to prayer signals the end of a day of fasting, the iftar table transforms into a space for gratitude and togetherness. Omani chef Maisaa al Manji embodies this spirit with her Special Seafood Mems, a dish rich in celebration and deeply rooted in Oman’s coastal heritage.

The experience begins with a captivating aroma. The golden threads of saffron intertwine with the citrusy depth of crushed black loomi. Steam wafts through the air, carrying the enticing scents of curry leaves, garlic, and sautéed onions, inviting everyone to gather around the table as the sun sets.

At the core of the dish is tender rice, lightly mashed and imbued with tomatoes, bell peppers, and whole spices sautéed in a mixture of olive oil and butter. A hint of aloe vera water adds a delicate silkiness, while fresh lemon juice brightens the warmth of the curry and pepper. Each grain absorbs these intricate flavors, creating a comforting and aromatic base.

Flaked fish, boiled gently with cumin, turmeric, garlic, and vinegar, is folded into the rice, ensuring that every spoonful captures both the essence of the sea and a touch of spice, providing nourishment after a day of fasting.

The standout feature is a baked whole fish accompanied by jumbo shrimp, both lightly seasoned and roasted alongside an array of baby vegetables and sweet pineapple. The caramelized pineapple’s sweetness beautifully balances the briny flavors, while the addition of fresh herbs enhances the dish’s overall freshness.

Completing the presentation is a smooth citrus sauce made from onion, ginger, garlic, lemon, and orange zest, providing a bright finish.

Adorned with coriander and saffron, the Special Seafood Mems becomes a centerpiece for Ramadan, generous, fragrant, and ideal for sharing.

Ingredients

Rice

• 1 kg rice
• 3 white onions, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 fresh tomatoes, finely diced
• Red and yellow bell peppers, finely diced
• 1 dried black lemon (loomi), crushed (without peel)
• 500 g boneless fish fillet (any type)
• 1 tbsp saffron
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp fish spice
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup soaked aloe vera water
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp salt
• Whole spices (bay leaves, curry leaves, mustard seeds)
• ½ cup olive oil
• 100 g butter
• 1.5 liters water (for cooking rice)
• ½ liter water (for vegetable sauce)

Seafood

• Medium and small whole fish (as desired)
• Jumbo shrimp
• Baby boiled potatoes
• Baby carrots
• Baby corn
• Pineapple cubes
• Chopped coriander
• Garlic
• White pepper powder
• Paprika powder
• Italian seasoning
• Wild thyme

Special Sauce

• White onion
• Bell pepper (finely chopped)
• Lemon zest
• Orange zest
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Butter
• Lemon juice
• Orange juice
• Salt

Note: Combine all sauce ingredients over heat until foam appears, then blend until smooth.

Preparation

Rice:

1. Boil water in a pot over high heat.
2. Add rice, salt, and oil. Cook until the water reduces to the level of the rice.
3. Lower the heat and cook until done.
4. Lightly mash the rice and set aside.

Fish:

1. Boil fish in water with salt, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, minced garlic, and vinegar.
2. Once cooked, flake the fish and set aside.

Rice Mixture:

1. In a separate pot, heat olive oil and butter. Add onions, whole spices, and garlic; sauté well.
2. Add bell peppers and tomatoes.
3. Stir in powdered spices, black lemon, saffron, water, coriander, and tomato paste.
4. Simmer on low heat for 6 minutes.
5. Add flaked fish and rice, mixing well to combine.
6. Transfer to a serving dish.

Seafood:

1. Clean fish and remove bones.
2. Butterfly the shrimp.
3. Soak fish and shrimp in water, lemon, and ice for at least 1 hour.
4. Arrange seafood in a baking dish, adding remaining ingredients.
5. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 30 minutes.
6. Place seafood over the rice and serve with the special sauce.

Garnish

• Thinly sliced green onions
• Chopped coriander
• Cracked wheat
• A pinch of saffron

Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market

The cultural nuances of Ramadhan meals, such as the Special Seafood Mems, highlight significant opportunities for businesses in Oman’s culinary tourism sector. By promoting authentic local cuisine, restaurants and food producers can attract both local patrons and international visitors, creating a vibrant market atmosphere. Smart investors should consider leveraging this cultural richness to innovate and differentiate their offerings, tapping into the growing demand for unique dining experiences.