Imagine a dish that brings the vibrant, sun-drenched coastlines of Morocco right to your dinner table - a culinary journey that combines bold spices, tender fish, and an explosion of flavor in every single bite. This Spicy Moroccan Baked Fish is not just a meal; it's a sensory experience that will transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary gastronomic adventure. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your fish cooks evenly and develops a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
- In a small bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. This spice blend will give your fish a wonderful Moroccan flavor.
- Place the white fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fish fillets. Use a brush or your hands to ensure that the fillets are well-coated with the oil.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over the fish fillets, making sure to cover them evenly. You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the seasoned fish. The lemon will add a fresh flavor and help keep the fish moist during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- While the fish is baking, prepare the garnish. Rinse and chop fresh cilantro, setting it aside for serving.
- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle.
- To serve, carefully transfer the baked fish fillets to plates, and garnish with the chopped cilantro. You can also add extra lemon wedges on the side for those who like a bit more citrus flavor.
- Enjoy your Spicy Moroccan Baked Fish with a side of couscous or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm white fish like cod or haddock for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Toast your spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your fish reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of white wine or fish stock to the baking sheet.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with smoked paprika.
- Allow the fish to rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to help retain its juices and improve overall tenderness.
- Serve immediately for the most vibrant flavors and optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
