Fried Trout Samak Maa’li

Preparation

• Clean the fish well, rinse and drain, then pat dry inside and out with paper towels.
• Rub 1 teaspoon salt on the skin and in the mouth opening of the fish.
• Combine ½ teaspoon seven spices, ½ teaspoon allspice and ¼ teaspoon celery salt. Use spice mixture to season the opening by rubbing it in well with your fingers.
• Combine flour, salt, cayenne, seven spices, cinnamon, and paprika. Dip fish in flour mixture to cover and set aside.

Procedure

1. Pour oil in the skillet and heat it on high for about 3 minutes.
2. Gently place 2 fish (or as many as will fit) in the hot oil and cook until they turn light golden brown on both sides. With a slotted spoon, transfer fried fish to a platter lined with paper towels to drain.
3. Finish the remaining fish in the same way and serve.

Serve it hot or warm with fresh pita bread, tahini sauce, salad and hummus.