Medium
4-6
Published 2015
The aromas of cinnamon and other spices permeate the streets in Morocco, from the market stalls to the footpaths. Tagines are made streetside in individual clay pots that bubble away for hours, making dreamy smells for passersby. Essaouira, a windy seaside town, is where I encountered this light stew. After eating a lot of lamb in Marrakesh it made a refreshing change.
To make the chermoula, process all the ingredients with a pinch of salt in a blender until smooth.
Cut the fish into large chunks and put it in a non-metallic dish, pour on half the chermoula and stand for 30-60 minutes.
Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in lightly salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
To make the tagine base, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ginger, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and cook for 10 minutes or until soft. Add the remaining chermoula, preserved lemon, tomato paste, cherry tomatoes and stock. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the fish and cooked potatoes to the saucepan containing the tagine base and cook for 5 minutes or until the fish is just cooked through. Serve the tagine, sprinkled with extra coriander, steamed couscous and lemon wedges.
© 2015 All rights reserved. Published by Murdoch Books.