Lenten Fish Recipe From the Biblical Levant

Biblical Fish Feast: Cooking Fish Like Jesus Would Have Eaten

Greetings, friends! This post comes to us from our sister blog, Good Food, Real Life, where we explore healthy recipes steeped in history and flavor.

Today, we’re bringing the past to your plate with a simple, heart-healthy recipe that captures the essence of biblical cuisine. Perfect for Lent, or anytime you crave a fresh, meaningful meal!

What Kind of Fish Did Jesus Eat?

The Sea of Galilee, where Jesus spent much of His ministry, is home to St. Peter’s Fish—a type of tilapia. This would have been a common catch for fishermen like Peter and Andrew.

Modern Substitutes: Any mild white fish like cod, haddock, or snapper will work beautifully if you can't find tilapia.

Ancient Flavors: Seasonings from Scripture

Historical records and ancient writings point to common ingredients in biblical-era cooking:

• Olive oil (the cornerstone of Mediterranean life)

• Salt (harvested from the Dead Sea)

• Sumac (bright, citrusy, and still popular today)

• Hyssop (a fragrant herb often mentioned in the Bible)

• Coriander and black cumin (valued for flavor and healing)

These Mediterranean spices and herbs can often be found at Middle Eastern grocery stores or ordered online.

How Fish Was Cooked in Biblical Times

In Jesus’ time, fish was usually:

• Grilled over an open flame

• Baked in clay or earth ovens

The goal was simplicity—fresh ingredients allowed to shine without heavy sauces or complicated techniques.

Modern Biblical Fish Recipe

This easy recipe brings ancient flavors to a modern kitchen. Ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 fillets of tilapia (or other mild white fish)

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sumac

• 1/2 teaspoon coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon black cumin

• 1 tablespoon fresh hyssop (or a mix of oregano and mint)

• Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Instructions

1. Pat the fish dry and rub each fillet with olive oil.

2. Sprinkle with salt, sumac, coriander, and black cumin. Press seasonings gently into the flesh.

3. Top with chopped hyssop (or oregano/mint blend).

4. Grill over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

5. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top before serving.

Suggested Sides

Serve your Biblical Fish Feast with traditional ancient accompaniments:

• Unleavened bread (like flatbread or pita)

• Lentils (earthy and hearty)

• Figs or dates (for a naturally sweet finish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Heart-Healthy: Full of omega-3s and anti-inflammatory herbs.

• Diabetes-Friendly: Naturally low-carb, high-protein meal.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Taste and See

Every time I make this, I imagine the disciples gathered around a fire—laughing, sharing stories, and breaking bread. Food has the power to connect us across centuries, cultures, and even the sacred.

Want more recipes blending ancient flavors, modern health, and deep history? Follow Good Food, Real Life for weekly inspiration straight from our kitchen to yours!