Masgoof: Iraq’s national dish
This is Masgoof. It is a delicacy and considered Iraq’s national dish. It’s a type of fish originally from the Tigris River, but now raised on fish farms. "Masgoof" actually means the manner in which it’s cooked, not the name of the fish itself. The fish is sliced open butterfly-style, sprinkled with salt, skewered and placed next to an open fire and slowly smoked until flaky-perfect. This dish is about $15, quite pricey by Iraqi standards so it’s usually only served on special occasions.
PHOTO COURTESY OF: Cesar G. Soriano