Name: Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 pound/450g salmon fillets (or any preferred fish); 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips; 1 serrano pepper (or 2 jalapeno peppers), sliced into strips; ½ cup chopped cilantro, divided; 2 carrots, peeled and cut into strips; 1 russet potato, peeled and cut into 1” slices (optional); 6 garlic cloves, peeled and halved; ⅓ cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 tablespoon sweet paprika; ½ tablespoon hot paprika (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon coarse salt; ½ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon turmeric; ¾ to 1 cup water

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 24 reviews

If your taste buds are ready for a burst of warmth and flavor, this Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe is the ultimate dish to try. It expertly balances fiery spices with a luscious, comforting sauce that clings to tender fish, making every bite a celebration. This recipe brings North African vibrance right to your kitchen, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a feast that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just craving something new, this dish invites you to savor the rich traditions of Moroccan cuisine with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a large metal pot, there are several layers of fresh vegetables arranged closely together. Starting from one side, peeled white potato slices rest at the bottom and are scattered across the pot. Above them, thick orange carrot sticks lay horizontally, covering a large part of the pot’s area. Next to the carrots, bright red bell pepper strips are neatly placed facing upward. On the other side, green chili peppers are cut lengthwise, showing their seeds and inner texture. Small whole garlic cloves are spread near the green chilies, nestled in the vegetable mix. The vegetables sit in a thin shiny layer of liquid that reflects light slightly. The pot itself has a worn metal look and rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to unlocking the full flavors of this dish. Each component, while straightforward, plays a crucial role—from the freshness of the salmon to the earthy warmth of the spices, and the bright touch of cilantro. These essentials work in harmony to create a rich sauce that elevates the fish without overpowering it.

Salmon fillets (1 pound/450g): A versatile and hearty fish base, but feel free to swap for your favorite fresh fish.
Olive oil (⅓ cup): Adds a fruity, smooth richness that’s essential for sautéing the vegetables and developing depth in the sauce.
Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish, balancing the spices beautifully.
Serrano pepper (1) or Jalapenos (2, sliced): For that signature spicy kick, tailor heat level by choosing your preferred chili pepper.
Chopped cilantro (½ cup): Offers a fresh, herbaceous lift that brightens the rich sauce.
Carrots (2, peeled, cut into strips): Provide subtle sweetness and a pleasant crunch, balancing the heat.
Russet potato (1, sliced, optional): Adds heartiness and texture, perfect if you want a more filling meal.
Garlic cloves (6, peeled, halved): Infuses the sauce with deep, aromatic flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the sauce with savory umami and a rich red hue.
Water (¾ to 1 cup): Helps create the luscious, saucy consistency that coats every ingredient perfectly.
Sweet paprika (1 tablespoon): Lends a smoky warmth that’s essential to Moroccan flavor profiles.
Hot paprika (½ tablespoon): Adjust this to amp up the spice or keep it subtle, depending on your heat tolerance.
Coarse salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and enhances every ingredient.
Cumin (½ teaspoon): Adds earthy, nutty undertones that are so characteristic of Moroccan dishes.
Turmeric (¼ teaspoon): Brings a mild bitterness and a vibrant golden color to the sauce.

How to Make Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Spices

Begin by heating your sauté pan over medium heat and drizzling in that luscious olive oil. Toss in the colorful mix of red bell pepper, serrano or jalapeno, carrots, garlic, and if using, those hearty potato slices. Give everything a gentle stir as the veggies soften for about 2-3 minutes. Then sprinkle in your sweet paprika, hot paprika, coarse salt, cumin, turmeric, and add a generous spoonful of tomato paste. Stir it well so all those spices and tomato paste marry beautifully with the vegetables, cooking them just a few more minutes to release their incredible aromas.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce and Simmer

Now add half the chopped cilantro along with about three-quarters of a cup of water to the pan. This step is where the sauce truly begins to come alive. Stir everything together, cover the pan, and let it gently bubble away for 12 to 15 minutes. The veggies will turn tender and soak up those rich, spiced flavors, creating a sauce that’s both comforting and tantalizingly fragrant.

Step 3: Adjust Seasoning and Add the Fish

After that simmering magic, give your sauce a taste and tweak your seasonings. You might want a pinch more salt or a touch extra heat with some hot paprika or red pepper flakes. Lightly season your fish fillets with salt, then nestle them right into the pan, making sure they’re smothered well by the sauce—ideally at least three-quarters covered. If the sauce looks a bit thick, add another splash of water to keep everything saucy and delicious. Spoon sauce over each fillet, sprinkle on the remaining cilantro, and cover again.

Step 4: Gently Cook the Fish to Perfection

Turn your heat down low and let the fish cook slowly for 20 to 25 minutes. This low and slow approach ensures the fish stays tender and perfectly infused with the rich sauce. Don’t forget to spoon some of that sauce over the fish halfway through cooking—it’s all about coating those fillets in flavor. Just before serving, dress the dish with fresh lemon slices and a generous squeeze of lemon juice to add a bright, citrusy contrast that lifts the whole meal beautifully.

How to Serve Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe

The dish is a richly colored stew in a deep white pot filled with several layers. The bottom layer consists of small segments of boiled egg half submerged in thick dark red sauce. Above the eggs, there are strips of orange carrot, round pieces of corn, and chunks of dark brown potato covered with a blend of powdered spices. In the center top layer, there is a dollop of bright red paste. A halved green chili pepper lies on top near the edge. The sauce looks oily and richly spiced, coating all ingredients evenly. The whole scene is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro on top not only brighten this dish visually but add layers of fresh aroma and flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of smoked paprika right before serving can also add a luxurious touch that makes the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

To complement this hearty Moroccan fish, opt for fluffy couscous or warm, crusty bread. Couscous is perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich sauce, while bread offers a satisfying texture to balance the tender fish. For a lighter note, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables seasoned simply with lemon and olive oil.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress friends and family by serving the fish in a beautiful tagine or a rustic cast iron skillet, allowing the colors and steam to enchant before they even taste a bite. Layer the dish with alternating colors of vegetables visible around the fish for visual appeal. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens adds a delicate but sophisticated flair to this bold, spicy meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps wonderfully for up to two days in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the bold flavors and moisture of the fish and sauce. The spices tend to deepen overnight, making your second serving even more flavorful!

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions, it’s best to separate the fish from the sauce before freezing. Place the sauce and fish in airtight containers or freezer bags. When thawed, the fish may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious when reheated gently with the sauce to bring it back to life.

Reheating

Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, spooning the sauce over the fish to keep it moist and tender. Avoid microwaving aggressively to maintain the delicate texture of the fish. A gentle warming preserves the harmony of spices and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon is a fantastic choice for its flavor and texture, you can use any firm fish like cod, halibut, or snapper. Just adjust cooking times slightly if your fish fillets vary in thickness.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is adaptable. Using serrano or jalapenos brings a pleasant kick, but you can scale up or down by adding more or less hot paprika or red pepper flakes. It’s a flexible recipe that caters to your palate.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those avoiding gluten while still craving a rich, flavorful meal.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can certainly try swapping the fish for hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms, and it will absorb the spices just as well for a plant-based twist on the Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftovers to keep the fish from drying out?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container with plenty of sauce coverage. This moist environment helps the fish retain moisture and prevents it from drying out in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Spicy Moroccan Fish in Rich Sauce Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, comforting, and packed with layers of exciting flavors. It’s an absolute joy to prepare and even more delightful to share with loved ones. I encourage you to dive in and experience the magic of Moroccan spices mingling with fresh, tender fish. You might just find yourself making this dish again and again!