Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce
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INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound/450g salmon fillets, feel free to use any fish you prefer
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 serrano pepper, or 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced into strips
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into strips
- 1 russet potato, peeled and cut into 1” slices (optional)
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¾ to 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- ½ tablespoon hot paprika, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and coat the bottom with the olive oil. Add all the veggies to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, cumin, turmeric, and tomato paste. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add half of the chopped cilantro and around ¾ cup of water to the pan. Stir everything together, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, until the veggies reach a tender perfection.
- Give it a taste and adjust the salt and spice levels according to your preference. If you're craving an extra kick, add more hot paprika or red pepper flakes. Lightly season the fish fillets with salt, then place them into the pan, ensuring they're generously coated with the flavorful sauce, at least ¾ of the way up. If needed, add another ¼ cup of water to enhance the sauciness. Spoon the sauce over each fillet, top with the remaining cilantro, and cover the pan.
- Cook on a low flame for 20-25 minutes, spooning the delectable sauce over the fish halfway through. Just before serving, garnish with refreshing lemon slices and squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top to add a citrusy zing.
MY NOTES
FAQ
What type of fish can I use for the Moroccan fish recipe?
You can use any fish you like for this recipe. Salmon fillets work well, but you can also try other firm-fleshed fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass.
How spicy is this Moroccan fish recipe?
The spice level in this Moroccan salmon dish can be adjusted according to your preference. The recipe includes hot paprika, green chili pepper and optional red pepper flakes, which provide a moderate level of heat. Feel free to add more or less spice to suit your taste.
Can I omit or substitute any ingredients?
While this Moroccan salmon dish is best enjoyed as is, you can make some adjustments. The vegetables can be customized based on your preference. The potato is optional and can be omitted if desired. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of peppers to vary the flavor profile.
Can I make any preparations in advance?
You can prepare the vegetables by slicing them ahead of time. However, it is recommended to cook this Moroccan fish dish fresh for the best taste and texture. The flavors meld together during the cooking process, resulting in a more authentic Moroccan experience.
Health benefits of eating fish
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats support heart health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to brain function.
Source of High-Quality Protein: Fish is a high-quality protein source, providing essential amino acids necessary for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Protein from fish is easily digestible and can support muscle development and strength.
Nutrient-Rich: Fish is a nutrient-dense food, providing essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc. These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions, including bone health, immune system function, and thyroid function.
Gonna make this one tonight!!
Awesome, please let us know how it went 🙂
This recipe was so so soooo good. I’ll make it again for sure! So simple and delicious. Thanks for sharing!!!
Hey Stephanie,
So glad you enjoyed it! 🙂