Moroccan Spiced Baked Fish with Zesty Herb Marinade
Moroccan Baked Fish Recipe
Morocco, with its vibrant culture and flavorful cuisine, brings to life a medley of aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients in every dish. This Moroccan Baked Fish recipe is a celebration of the country’s culinary heritage. Featuring firm-fleshed fish, zesty marinades, and the warmth of Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and saffron, this dish is a delightful main course perfect for dinner. Pair it with Rustic Rosemary Garlic Zucchini Bread and a glass of wine for a sophisticated dining experience.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basa fish, salmon, or any white firm-fleshed fish | 500 grams (1 fillet) |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, crushed |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves | 4 sprigs, finely chopped |
| Parsley leaves | 4 sprigs, finely chopped |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Saffron strands | 1 pinch |
| Paprika powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon | 1, juiced |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Onions | 2, julienned |
| Black olives | 1/4 cup, sliced and pitted |
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
| Task | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed garlic, finely chopped parsley and cilantro, cumin powder, paprika, saffron strands, lemon juice, and homemade tomato puree.
- Add salt, black pepper powder, and half of the olive oil to the mixture. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Fish
- Place the fish fillet into the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or cling wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 3: Prepare the Onions and Olives
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the julienned onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent.
- Stir in the sliced black olives and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) for 5 minutes.
- Spread the sautéed onions evenly in a baking dish to create a flavorful base.
- Arrange the marinated fish fillets over the onion layer. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the fish for added flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Carefully transfer the baked fish onto a serving plate. Drizzle some of the savory gravy from the baking dish over the fish for added moisture and taste.
- Pair the Moroccan Baked Fish with a slice of Rustic Rosemary Garlic Zucchini Bread for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Moroccan Baked Fish
- Choice of Fish: While basa or salmon works wonderfully, any firm-fleshed white fish like cod or halibut can also be used.
- Marination Time: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the fish overnight in the refrigerator.
- Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat if desired.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Moroccan Baked Fish with steamed couscous or warm pita bread for a complete Moroccan-inspired meal.
- For a lighter accompaniment, a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad works perfectly.
This Moroccan Baked Fish recipe is a true culinary gem, bringing the exotic flavors of Morocco straight to your dinner table. The harmonious blend of spices, zesty marinade, and tender fish creates a dish that is as aromatic as it is delicious. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe is bound to impress and become a staple in your dinner repertoire. Bon appétit!
