Baharat-Marinated Fish

Baharat Marinated Fish

This Baharat Marinated Fish recipe features a rich, aromatic marinade with the complex flavours of baharat seasoning, combined with the freshness of lemon and the depth of garlic. The result is a juicy, flavour-packed fish that can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

For the Fish Marinade:

  • 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as cod, sea bream, sea bass, or halibut), about 6 oz each (or any fish fillet of your choice)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon baharat seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika (optional, for a smoky flavour)

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for extra colour and warmth)

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a subtle sweetness)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

  • Lemon wedges

  • Sliced red onion or shallots, marinated in vinegar (optional, for added tang)

  • Olives (optional, for a Mediterranean touch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, baharat, ground cumin, ground paprika (if using), ground turmeric (optional), fresh thyme, and honey (if using). Whisk everything together until the marinade is smooth and well-blended.

  2. Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a bit more spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

2. Marinate the Fish:

  1. Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.

  2. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Gently rub the marinade into the fish for even coverage.

  3. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for 1-2 hours to allow the fish to absorb the flavours. If you're short on time, marinate for at least 15 minutes, though the flavours will be more pronounced with longer marination.

3. Cook the Fish:

You can cook the marinated fish using one of the following methods:

Option 1: Grilling:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  2. Brush the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.

  3. Grill the fish fillets for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry.

Option 2: Baking:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Place the marinated fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

  3. Bake the fish for 12-15 minutes (depending on thickness), or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a slightly crispy top, you can broil the fish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Option 3: Pan-Searing:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated fish fillets to the pan.

  3. Cook the fish for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Gently flip the fillets using a spatula, as the fish can be delicate.

4. Serve:

  1. Once the fish is cooked, transfer the fillets to a serving platter.

  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a few lemon wedges, and any additional garnishes such as marinated red onion, olives, or a drizzle of extra lemon juice for brightness.

  3. Serve the baharat-marinated fish with your choice of side dishes. It pairs beautifully with couscous, rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a green salad.

Optional Variations:

  • Use a mix of fish: If you prefer, you can use a variety of fish like salmon, mackerel, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of seafood you're using.

  • Serve with a side of flatbreads: For a more Mediterranean-style meal, pair the fish with warm pita bread or naan to soak up any extra sauce.

Storage:

  • Leftover baharat-marinated fish can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a covered pan on low heat or in the oven, being careful not to dry out the fish.

  • If using grilled or pan-seared fish, it's best to consume it fresh, as reheating can sometimes cause it to dry out.

Why You'll Love It:

  • The baharat seasoning brings a beautiful warmth and depth to the fish, with fragrant notes of cinnamon, cumin, and coriander.

  • The marinade keeps the fish moist and juicy while imparting a delicious, complex flavour profile.

  • This dish is quick and easy to prepare, yet elegant enough for dinner parties or special occasions.

Baharat-Marinated Fish is a flavourful, aromatic dish that can be cooked in multiple ways and served with a variety of sides. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it's sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold and aromatic flavours. Enjoy!

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