Iraqi Grilled Masgouf Fish
Quick answer
A medium portion of Iraqi Grilled Masgouf Fish (250 g) contains 412 kcal, with 3.2 g of net carbohydrates and 60 g of protein.
- Carbs3.8 g3.6%
- Protein60 g58.2%
- Fat17.5 g38.2%
- Fibre0.5 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
How many calories are in masgouf?
Masgouf is the pride of Baghdad and the Tigris: a carp opened along the back, grilled in front of a wood fire, and brushed with turmeric, tamarind and tomato. There are 165 calories and 24 g of protein per 100 g, and a portion (250 g of fish) has about 413 calories and 60 g of protein.
Does masgouf raise blood sugar?
No. Fish has almost no carbohydrate (1.5 g per 100 g, from the marinade), so the glycemic index does not apply. But watch the bread and rice served with it, because they are what raises blood sugar.
Why masgouf is one of the best grill choices
- Grilling in front of the fire lets some of the fat drip away, without frying oil.
- High protein keeps you full for a long time.
- The fish has omega-3 fats, although carp has less of them than salmon and sardines.
How to eat it smartly
- You can eat it with a tomato, onion and cucumber salad, and pickles in moderation.
- One tannour bread is enough, instead of rice and bread together.
- Watch out for the small bones in carp, especially with children.
Lighter alternatives
- Instead of fried fish: grilled masgouf.
- Instead of white rice and bread together: one bread with a big salad.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (250 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 165 kcal | 412.5 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g | 60 g |
| Carbohydrate | 1.5 g | 3.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 1.3 g | 3.2 g |
| Sugar | not available | — |
| Fat | 7 g | 17.5 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.2 g | 0.5 g |
| Glycemic index | Not applicable | |
| Glycemic load | Not applicable | |
| Insulin index | not tested | |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 165 kcal per 100 g, ranking 21 of 65 in Arabic dishes (lowest first).
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in masgouf?
165 calories per 100 g, and a portion (250 g) has about 413 calories.
Is masgouf suitable for weight loss?
Yes, it is one of the best choices: grilled, high in protein, and without frying oil.
Does masgouf raise blood sugar?
No, fish has almost no carbohydrate. The bread or rice served with it is what makes the difference.
What kind of fish is used for masgouf?
The best known is carp, and some people use other river fish.
Read also
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index does not apply because this food has less than 5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, and a GI test requires 25 to 50 g of available carbohydrate, per: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib | Founder, WiBo Health · 31 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.