Fish Tagine

Fish Tagine is a flavorful Moroccan dish that showcases tender, marinated fish cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce made with tomatoes, olives, and a medley of warm spices. Slow-cooked in a traditional tagine pot or a heavy skillet, the dish absorbs the vibrant flavors of cumin, paprika, ginger, and saffron, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the bold, tangy accents of preserved lemons and green olives. Perfect for a special dinner or gathering, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, aromatic meal that’s bursting with exotic flavors and colors.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs firm white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or sea bass)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 preserved lemon, quartered (or zest of 1 lemon if not available)
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Fish: In a small bowl, combine half of the garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cumin, paprika, ground ginger, saffron (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Rub this mixture over the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Heat the remaining olive oil in a tagine or large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, red bell pepper, and lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the vegetables to simmer for about 10 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the Fish: Nestle the marinated fish fillets into the sauce. Scatter the preserved lemon quarters (or lemon zest), olives, cilantro, and parsley over the fish.
5. Simmer: Cover the tagine or skillet and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve hot, accompanied by couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Fish Tagine for a healthy, exotic, and satisfying meal!