Moroccan Shad Stuffed with Dates

This freshwater fish, found in the Sebou river, is popular in Morocco. It is fat but rather full of bones, and its delicate flesh is said to be at its best soon after spawning up-river. Shad is found in British rivers but rarely reaches the fishmonger’s slab. However, other oily fish such as mackerel can be prepared in the same way.

The dish requires rather lengthy preparation, which can be enjoyable from time to time. Dates are stuffed with rice and blanched almonds, and they, in t