Tagine of Fish with Vegetables

This Moroccan tagine features tender fish fillets cooked with a medley of fresh vegetables, infused with a blend of aromatic spices. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for a comforting and hearty meal.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tagine:

• 4 fish fillets (white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup green olives
• 1 preserved lemon, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup water or fish stock

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a bowl, combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the marinade over the fish fillets and let them marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
2. Layer the Tagine:
   • In the base of a tagine or a large heavy-bottomed pot, spread a layer of sliced onions.
   • Arrange the potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in layers over the onions.
   • Place the marinated fish fillets on top of the vegetables.
3. Add Tomatoes and Garnish:
   • Top the fish with sliced tomatoes, olives, and preserved lemon slices.
   • Pour the remaining marinade over the ingredients and add water or fish stock.
4. Cook the Tagine:
   • Cover the tagine or pot and cook over low heat for 45–60 minutes, until the fish is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
   • Check occasionally to ensure the dish is not drying out; add a little more water if needed.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with Moroccan bread or steamed rice.

Tips:

• If you don’t have a tagine, a Dutch oven or any heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid works well.
• You can customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability.
• For a richer flavor, use fish stock instead of water.

This wholesome and flavorful dish is a classic Moroccan recipe, perfect for family meals or special gatherings!