In general, nutritional properties, taste, variety, price, and cultural and historical influences are factors that increase the popularity of seafood in the Middle East and West Asia region and lead people to consume them
People of West asian countries use different aquatics as Food . In this area, due to the presence of sea coasts and rich aquatic resources, consumption of fish and other marine creatures is very common. For example, in the Persian Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and the United arab emirates , fish consumption is very popular. Fish such as salmon, tuna, grouper, white fish and fish caught from the Persian Gulf are consumed as popular food in these areas.
In the West asia region, several edible aquatics are popular and widely consumed. The popularity of specific aquatic species can vary among countries within the region due to cultural preferences and availability. Shrimp is highly popular and widely consumed throughout West Asia. It is used in various dishes, including grilled shrimp, shrimp biryani, shrimp curry, and shrimp salads. Both fresh and frozen shrimp are commonly available in local markets. Fish is a staple in the West Asian diet, and various species are consumed. Hamour (also known as grouper), is a popular fish in the Gulf region, with a firm and flavorful flesh. It is often grilled, baked, or used in stews and curries.
Squid and cuttlefish are commonly consumed throughout the region and are used in dishes such as calamari, fried squid rings, and grilled cuttlefish. Oysters are enjoyed by seafood lovers in West Asia. They are often served raw, grilled, or in seafood platters. Caviar, the processed roe of sturgeon fish, is considered a delicacy and is consumed by affluent individuals in the region. It is typically served as a luxury appetizer. In Iraq and Iran , fish consumption is also very common. Sturgeon, carp and salmon are widely consumed. Also, crabs and shrimps are also used in these areas. In Türkiye, the consumption of fish and shrimp is also very common. For example, lobster fish, sardine fish and various shrimps are known as widely consumed Foods in this country.
- Seafood, especially fish, shrimp and crabs, are excellent sources of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and Minerals such as selenium and Zinc . These nutritional properties make seafood attractive to people and lead them to consume it.
- Seafood has a special taste that some people like very much. The freshness and slight bitterness in fish and the sweet and creamy taste in shrimps and crabs are some of the features that attract consumers.
- Seafood is available in various types such as fish, shrimp, crab and shellfish. This variety allows people to enjoy different foods and choose according to their taste.
- The price of seafood in some areas is more reasonable than red Meat or other protein sources. This can be one of the factors that lead people to consume seafood.
- In some regions of the Middle east and West Asia, the consumption of seafood goes back to a long history and has a cultural heritage and a special place. These cultural influences can make people dependent on seafood consumption.
In general, nutritional properties, taste, variety, price, and cultural and historical influences are factors that increase the popularity of seafood in the Middle East and West Asia region and lead people to consume them. The people of West Asian countries are very diverse in their consumption of seafood and use fish, crabs, shrimps and other local seafood. The choice of seafood as food depends on local habits, cultural issues and access to local resources in each country. The popularity of seafood among the people of the Middle East and West Asia is due to several factors.
Sultan Ibrahim is a local fish found in the Arabian Gulf. It is often served grilled or fried. Pomfret is a popular fish known for its delicate flavor and white flesh. It is commonly used in fish curries, fried preparations, and fish soups. Lobster is considered a luxury seafood item in West Asia. It is highly valued for its tender meat and is often served grilled, steamed, or in seafood platters. Crabs, both blue crabs and mud crabs, are popular in the region. They are used in various dishes, including crab curry, crab masala, and crab cakes. Mussels are consumed in West Asia, particularly in coastal regions. They are used in soups, stews, and pasta dishes.