A spicy Moroccan sauce, chermoula, flavors this recipe for Baked Chermoula Halibut with Couscous, making it a delicious and simple dish to get on the table.
Rind of ¼ of a preserved lemonremove any lemon and only use the rind
1tablespoonras-el-hanout
1poundhalibut or other thick white fish
½cupdiced tomatoes with their juicelightly chopped
Fish or clam stockas needed
Chopped cilantrofor garnish
For the Couscous
1cupdiced onion
2tablespoonsgheeoil, or butter
1teaspoonground cumin
½teaspoonsaffron or turmeric
Salt and pepperto taste
¾cupchicken stockor as directed for your couscous
1cupcouscous
½cupfrozen peasoptional
Instructions
For the Baked Fish: Combine the onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, lemon juice, preserved lemon rind and raw-el-hanout in a food processor. Process to a smooth paste. Arrange the fish in a single layer in an ovenproof pan or tagine. Pour the onion mixture over the top; cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
Heat the oven to 350°F. Pour the tomatoes around the fish and add clam juice or fish stock if not using a tagine so the fish has liquid up to about halfway. Cover and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish, the fish should be just cooked through, do not overcook. The tip of a knife, when inserted in the thickest part, should not have any resistance as it goes through the fish. If the sauce seems too thin; transfer it to a small saucepan and simmer until reduced slightly.
For the Couscous: While the fish is cooking, prepare the couscous. Heat the Ghee, oil, or butter in a small through. Sauté the onions until they begin to brown around the edges, stir in the cumin, saffron (or turmeric), salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2 - 3 minutes or until fragrant. Add the broth and bring to a simmer; add the couscous and peas, if using. Stir, then cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Uncover, fluff with a fork.
To Serve: Place the couscous on a warmed plate, top slightly with the fish and then spoon sauce over the top. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.