Description
Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce
Ingredients:
450 g (1 lb) salmon fillets (or any firm fish of your choice)
1/3 cup olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 serrano chili (or 2 jalapeños), sliced into strips
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
2 carrots, peeled and cut into strips
1 Russet potato, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds (optional)
6 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
1 tbsp tomato paste
3/4 to 1 cup water
1 tbsp sweet paprika
1/2 tbsp hot paprika (adjust to taste)
1 tsp coarse salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp turmeric
Directions:
Heat a large skillet with olive oil and add the vegetables. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Add the spices and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the chopped cilantro and 3/4 cup water. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes.
Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cover them with the sauce. Simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the fish.
Garnish with lemon slices and squeeze fresh juice over the dish before serving.
Prep Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep All Ingredients: Slice the bell pepper, chili, carrots, and potato. Chop the cilantro and halve the garlic cloves. Pat the fish fillets dry.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, chili, carrots, potato (if using), and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Bloom the Spices: Add the sweet paprika, hot paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to coat the vegetables and deepen the spice flavors.
4. Create the Sauce Base: Stir in the chopped cilantro and 3/4 cup of water. Bring to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Cook the Fish: Nestle the fish fillets into the sauce, spooning it over to cover them. Cover the skillet again and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. Baste the fish with the sauce occasionally. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
6. Final Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
This robust dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the flavorful sauce. Serve it over a bed of:
- Couscous or fluffy quinoa for a classic Moroccan touch.
- Crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up every bit of sauce.
- A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed green beans or roasted cauliflower for added vegetables.
How-to Summary
Sauté sliced vegetables in olive oil, then add spices and tomato paste to bloom. Create a sauce with water and cilantro, simmer until vegetables are tender. Add fish fillets, cover with sauce, and simmer gently until the fish is cooked through. Garnish with fresh lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish? Absolutely. Any firm-fleshed fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass works well. Adjust cooking time slightly for thinner fillets.
How can I make it less spicy? Omit the hot paprika and use only sweet paprika. Remove the seeds from the fresh chili, or skip it entirely.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead. Reheat it gently before adding and cooking the fish to ensure the best texture.
Is the potato necessary? No, it’s optional. It adds heartiness and helps thicken the sauce, but the dish is complete without it.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? If your sauce is runny after cooking, remove the fish and vegetables, then simmer the sauce uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce and thicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Use a large enough skillet so vegetables sauté, not steam.
- Not Blooming Spices: Cooking the spices with the tomato paste is crucial for depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step.
- Overcooking the Fish: Simmer gently on low heat. Vigorous boiling will make the fish tough and dry.
- Using Dried Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for the authentic, bright flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Spicy Moroccan Fish is a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings the bold flavors of North Africa to your table with minimal effort. The rich, spiced sauce perfectly complements tender fish and hearty vegetables, creating a satisfying and healthy meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this impressive dish. Don’t forget the final squeeze of lemon—it’s the essential bright note that ties everything together. Enjoy your culinary journey!