Samkeh Harra (Spicy Syrian Fish)
A vibrant and flavorful Syrian dish featuring baked or pan-fried fish coated in a rich, spicy tomato and pepper sauce, often garnished with fresh herbs and nuts.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce portions White fish fillets(such as sea bass, cod, or tilapia)
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(finely chopped)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Tomatoes(diced, undrained)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1/2 tsp Aleppo pepper flakes(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Pine nuts(toasted, for garnish (optional))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the fish is dry helps it to sear better if pan-frying, or crisp up in the oven. - 2
In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pepper is tender and garlic is fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and Aleppo pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: The sauce should be flavorful and slightly spicy. - 6
Nestle the fish fillets into the sauce in the skillet or baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is partially submerged in the sauce for moist cooking. - 7
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking the fish to keep it moist. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, parsley, and toasted pine nuts (if using) before serving.
💡 Tip: Fresh herbs add a bright contrast to the rich sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well.
- ✓Adjust the amount of Aleppo pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- ✓Serve with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
🔄 Variations
- For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of tahini.
- Include chopped olives or capers for an extra briny flavor.
- If you prefer, you can pan-sear the fish fillets until golden brown on both sides before adding them to the sauce to finish cooking.