Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb white fish fillets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup preserved lemon, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Tajine or a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, paprika, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. In the tajine or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the spice mixture to the pot and stir well.
5. Add the fish fillets to the pot, making sure they are coated with the spice mixture.
6. Add the olives and preserved lemon to the pot, distributing them evenly around the fish.
7. Cover the pot with the lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove the pot from the oven and sprinkle the cilantro over the top.
9. Serve hot with couscous or crusty bread.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any firm, white fish can be used in place of the white fish fillets.
- Black olives can be used instead of green olives.
- If preserved lemons are not available, fresh lemons can be used instead.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots to the pot before baking for a heartier meal.
- Use chicken instead of fish for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the spice mixture for a more complex flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to coat the fish fillets well with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.
- If using a tajine, make sure to soak it in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent cracking.
- If using a pot, make sure to use a heavy-bottomed one to prevent burning.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the fish tajine in the tajine itself for an authentic presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle additional chopped cilantro over the top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of couscous or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Moroccan carrot salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Chickpea salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fish is not cooked through after 25 minutes, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the fish to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Tajine is a traditional Moroccan dish that is named after the earthenware pot it is cooked in. It is typically made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and is slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld together.
Flavor profiles:
This fish tajine is savory and slightly spicy, with a tangy flavor from the olives and preserved lemon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the fish tajine with a side of couscous or crusty bread for a complete meal.
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Region: Moroccan