Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce!

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Morocco with this delectable Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish recipe. Featuring tender fish simmered in a deeply flavored, aromatic sauce infused with spices like paprika and cumin, this dish is a delightful balance of heat and richness. Perfect for serving with fluffy couscous or crusty bread, it's an unforgettable meal that celebrates the essence of Moroccan cuisine.

Tabitha Green

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2025-12-10T20:10:23.359Z

This dish allows you to experience Moroccan culture through its rich flavors and aromas.

Experience the Flavorful Essence of Morocco

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its complex flavors and aromatic spices, which create a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of North Africa. This Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish dish captures this essence perfectly, allowing you to savor the rich, deep flavors that characterize Moroccan cooking. The combination of spices such as smoked paprika and ground cumin provides a delightful warmth without overpowering the delicate taste of the fish.

Cooking this dish is not just about preparing a meal; it's about embracing the culture and tradition of Morocco. The vibrant colors of the ingredients work together to create a visually appealing dish that excites the palate. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe brings the joy of Moroccan hospitality right to your table.

Perfect Pairings for Your Moroccan Feast

When serving Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish, consider pairing it with fluffy couscous, which can soak up the rich sauce beautifully. Couscous is light and versatile, making it an excellent choice to balance the dish's heat. Cooking it with a touch of vegetable broth instead of water can enhance its flavor, making it a perfect complement to the fish.

For an added layer of texture and flavor, crusty bread is another fantastic option. A warm, crusty baguette or rustic loaf can be used to scoop up the sauce, ensuring that not a drop goes to waste. The combination of bread and fish is reminiscent of traditional Moroccan meals, creating an authentic dining experience.

Troubleshooting Tips for Perfectly Cooked Fish

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Fish and Sauce

  • 4 pieces of firm white fish (like cod or haddock)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Serving Suggestions

  • Couscous or crusty bread

Make sure to adjust spices to your taste!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground coriander; cook for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Fish

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Once simmering, add the fish pieces to the skillet.

Simmer

Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with couscous or crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious Moroccan fish dish!

The Health Benefits of Spicy Food

Spicy foods, like those in Moroccan cuisine, often come with several health benefits. Ingredients like chili powder and paprika can boost metabolism and improve circulation. They're also packed with antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. Incorporating these spices into your meals not only enhances flavor but also can promote overall well-being.

Additionally, the richness of the sauce in this recipe, made with tomatoes and olive oil, contributes to heart health. Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, known to support cardiovascular health, while olive oil is rich in healthy fats that can help lower cholesterol levels.

Exploring Moroccan Cuisine Further

If you enjoyed this Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish, consider exploring other traditional Moroccan dishes. Tagines, a slow-cooked stew made with meat or vegetables, offer a wonderful way to experience the rich flavors of Moroccan spices. Similarly, dishes like harira, a spiced soup, or pastilla, a savory pie, can introduce you to the diverse culinary landscape of Morocco.

Don't forget to explore Moroccan desserts as well, such as baklava or Moroccan mint tea. These courses can provide a delightful end to your meal, giving you a taste of sweet traditions and hospitality.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of fish?

Yes, but firm white fish works best for this recipe.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of paprika and cumin to lower the heat.

Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce!

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Morocco with this delectable Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish recipe. Featuring tender fish simmered in a deeply flavored, aromatic sauce infused with spices like paprika and cumin, this dish is a delightful balance of heat and richness. Perfect for serving with fluffy couscous or crusty bread, it's an unforgettable meal that celebrates the essence of Moroccan cuisine.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Tabitha Green

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Fish and Sauce

  1. 4 pieces of firm white fish (like cod or haddock)
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 large onion, finely chopped
  4. 3 garlic cloves, minced
  5. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  6. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  7. 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  8. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  9. 1 cup vegetable broth
  10. Salt and pepper, to taste
  11. Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Serving Suggestions

  1. Couscous or crusty bread

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground coriander; cook for another minute.

Step 02

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Once simmering, add the fish pieces to the skillet.

Step 03

Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

Step 04

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with couscous or crusty bread.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g