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Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce – A North African Comfort Dish

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Tender white fish simmered in a rich Moroccan tomato and pepper sauce infused with cumin, garlic, paprika, and fresh herbs. A flavorful North African favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fish

  • 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: 1 tsp cumin + 1 tbsp cilantro

For the Sauce

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1½ cups crushed tomatoes

  • ¼ cup water or fish broth

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp sweet paprika

  • ½ tsp hot paprika

  • ½ tsp turmeric

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional: 1 pinch cayenne

  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • Optional: chopped preserved lemon

Instructions

  • Marinate fish in lemon juice, salt, and spices. Set aside.

  • In a skillet, heat oil and sauté onions 5–6 minutes. Add peppers and cook 5 more minutes.

  • Add garlic and spices. Stir for 1 minute.

  • Stir in tomatoes, water, herbs, and preserved lemon (if using). Simmer 10–12 minutes uncovered until thickened.

  • Add fish to sauce. Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes until cooked through.

  • Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with bread, couscous, or rice.

Notes

Adjust spice to your liking. Use tagine for traditional presentation. Can be adapted to vegan with eggplant or chickpeas.

Find it online: https://goldenflavorstudio.com/classic-spicy-moroccan-fish-in-rich-sauce-a-north-african-comfort-dish/