Ketovore Mahi Mahi & Shrimp with Arugula
A Warm Mineral Plate
This warm ketovore plate brings together wild-caught fish, shrimp, mineral salt, warming spices, citrus, nourishing fats, and fresh arugula.
It is simple, grounding, and deeply satisfying … a cooked protein-rich meal that feels both hearty and clean.
Ingredients
- 1 piece wild-caught mahi mahi
- 10 wild-caught White Gulf shrimp
- Himalayan salt, to taste
- ½ medium onion
- 4 cloves fresh garlic
- ½ fresh lemon
- 1 key lime
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Generous black pepper
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 handful fresh arugula
- 1 teaspoon tallow
- 1 teaspoon ghee
Preparation
Use a stainless steel frying pan or cast iron pan with a lid.
Add the tallow and ghee to the pan over medium-low heat. On a stove range of 0 to 8, I used about 4.
Slice the ½ onion into two pieces, separate the layers, and add them to the pan once the fat has melted and warmed. Add Himalayan salt to taste. Let the onions cook gently for about 10 minutes.
While the onions cook, chop the fresh garlic and set it aside.
De-shell and rinse the shrimp. Prepare the mahi mahi.
When the onions begin to sizzle, add the shrimp and fish to the pan.
Sprinkle in the turmeric, ginger, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Lower the heat to about 2.5 and cover the pan with the lid.
Allow to cook for about 15 minutes.
Add the ½ fresh lemon (cut into 2), removing the seeds. Cut the key lime in half, remove the seeds, and add the whole citrus as well.
Add the chopped garlic, then cover the pan again.
Check after another 15 minutes.
If there is enough juice in the pan, reduce the heat to about 1 and allow it to simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes.
If the pan looks dry and you prefer more moisture, add a small amount of clean water as desired.
Add the fresh arugula, cover again, and allow it to cook for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on how tender or slightly crisp you prefer your greens.
Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the burner.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Serving Options
This can be served on its own as a ketovore-style meal.
For those who include more carbohydrates, it may also be paired with:
- wild rice
- sweet potatoes
- boiled unripe plantains
- agidi, a Nigerian food made from fermented cassava
Silent Medicine Note
This is a warm, mineral-rich, protein-centered plate. The fish and shrimp offer grounding nourishment, while the citrus, garlic, spices, and arugula bring brightness, warmth, and freshness.
It is simple food… prepared with attention, warmth, and respect for the body.
Related Reading
Fasting as a Reset for Mind and Body: A Gentle Path to Healing and Balance
What do you consume… and how does it shape your day?
Regain Your Balance: How to Heal Your Nervous System and Calm the Mind
Nutrition as Information, Not Identity (podcast)
When the Body Says “No” Before the Mind Understands
FAQs
1. Is this recipe strictly ketovore?
This meal follows a ketovore-style approach with a focus on animal-based protein and simple whole ingredients. The addition of arugula offers a light plant element for balance.
2. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes. You may substitute mahi mahi with other firm, wild-caught fish such as cod, halibut, or snapper.
3. Can I cook this without ghee or tallow?
Yes. You may use another cooking fat of your choice, though ghee and tallow provide a stable cooking base and a rich, grounding flavor.
4. What if I don’t have key lime?
You can use regular lime or increase the amount of lemon slightly. The citrus simply adds brightness and balance to the dish.
5. Can I skip the spices?
Yes. The spices are optional and can be adjusted or simplified. Even with just salt, garlic, and citrus, the meal remains flavorful.
6. Is this meal suitable for beginners?
Yes. The preparation is simple and forgiving, making it accessible even if you are new to cooking.
7. Can this be stored and reheated?
Yes. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator and gently reheat on low heat to preserve texture and flavor.
Clinical services are provided within my scope as a licensed clinical psychologist (CA, RI). My Doctor of Integrative Medicine credential is a doctoral degree with board certification by the Board of Integrative Medicine (BOIM) and does not represent a medical/physician license. All educational content is for learning only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care.
About Dr. Nnenna Ndika
Dr. Nnenna Ndika is an integrative, trauma-informed clinical psychologist (CA/RI) and Doctor of Integrative Medicine (BOIM). Her work bridges neuroscience, somatic regulation, and environmental rhythms—simple, minimalist practices that help the body remember safety and the mind regain quiet strength. Silent Medicine is educational only; it does not replace medical or psychological care. Begin with Start Here or explore Mind-Body Healing.
