The Moroccan Fish Tagine with Chermoula is a vibrant and aromatic dish, blending fresh fish with a zesty herb and spice marinade.
Chermoula, a signature Moroccan sauce made of cilantro, parsley, garlic, paprika, cumin, and lemon juice, infuses the fish with bold flavors.
This dish is traditionally cooked in a tagine for gentle steaming, but it can also be prepared in a covered skillet or oven.
Serve it with steamed couscous, flatbread, or a fresh Moroccan salad for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Ingredients
For the Chermoula Marinade:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Fish Tagine:
- 2 lbs firm white fish fillets (cod, sea bass, or halibut)
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 preserved lemon, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup water
- Additional olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley and cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chermoula
In a food processor or bowl, combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Blend or mix until a smooth marinade forms.
2. Marinate the Fish
Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and coat them with the chermoula marinade.
Let them marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
3. Layer Vegetables
In a tagine or large skillet, arrange onion, bell pepper, and tomato slices.
Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Fish
Place the marinated fish fillets over the vegetables.
Add preserved lemon slices if using and pour 1/2 cup water around the fish.
Cover and cook over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily.
5. Serve & Garnish
Transfer the tagine to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley and cilantro.
Serve with couscous, Moroccan flatbread, or a side salad.
Tips & Benefits
- Fresh & Healthy: Firm white fish is rich in protein and low in fat.
- Flavorful & Aromatic: Chermoula adds a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Make Ahead: Fish can be marinated ahead to enhance taste.
- Traditional Moroccan Dish: Perfect for sharing with family or guests.