Baked Fish with Chermoula Marinade
Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (approximately 800g / 28 oz), such as cod, halibut, or snapper
- 50g (1/4 cup) fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 50g (1/4 cup) fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 15g (1 tbsp) fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
- 30ml (2 tbsp) fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Welcome to a flavorful journey into the world of aromatic spices and succulent seafood with our Baked Fish with Chermoula Marinade. Chermoula, a North African marinade, combines fresh herbs and spices to create a bold and zesty flavor that beautifully complements the delicate taste of baked fish. Perfect for a healthy dinner or an elegant lunch, this dish is sure to impress with its vivid taste and simplicity. Follow this detailed guide to bring the vibrant essence of Chermoula into your kitchen and delight your guests with this exquisite baked fish dish.
Kitchen Equipment Required:
- Baking Dish (9×13 inches / 23×33 cm)
- Small Blender or Food Processor
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Oven Mitts
Cooking Time: Total estimated time: 1 hour
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chermoula Marinade
In a small blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, parsley, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, ensuring all the herbs are finely chopped and the mixture has a paste-like consistency.
Step 2: Marinate the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish with the chermoula marinade, ensuring each fillet is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) in preparation for baking the marinated fish fillets.
Step 4: Bake the Fish
Place the marinated fish fillets in a baking dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the fillets. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the baked fish from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the fish fillets with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion: You’ve just crafted a delightful Baked Fish with Chermoula Marinade, a dish that brings together the bright and aromatic flavors of North African cuisine with the wholesome goodness of fresh seafood. This recipe not only showcases the vibrancy of Chermoula but also highlights the elegance inherent in simplicity. Whether you choose to serve this dish at a family gathering or a special occasion, it promises to captivate and satisfy. Share the warmth and spice of this culinary creation with those you love, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. Bon appétit!