Dive into the vibrant flavors of Lebanon with this authentic Samkeh Harra recipe, a spicy red snapper dish that will tantalize your taste buds. This culinary gem, a staple in Lebanese cuisine, features tender red snapper fillets simmered in a fiery, aromatic sauce brimming with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and a generous kick of chili. The rich, complex flavors are perfectly balanced, creating a harmonious blend of heat, tang, and savory goodness that will leave you wanting more. Forget bland seafood; this is an explosion of Mediterranean sunshine on your plate.
Samkeh Harra is surprisingly easy to make, despite its impressive taste. This recipe provides a clear, step-by-step guide to recreating this Lebanese delicacy in your own kitchen. Let's embark on this culinary journey and learn how to prepare this delicious and healthy dish.
Tools Needed
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Frying Pan
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Red Snapper: 2.5 lbs
- Salt: 0.5 tsp
- Cayenne Pepper: 1.5 tsp
- Coriander: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 heads, mashed
- Vegetable Oil: 0.25 cup
- Cilantro: 1 cup, roughly chopped
- Slivered Almonds: 1 cup, toasted
- Tahini Sauce: 2 cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Sauce Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the whole red snapper with salt and oil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- In a frying pan, sauté the mashed garlic in vegetable oil until golden brown (be careful not to burn it).
- Add coriander to the pan and sauté briefly.
- Add cayenne pepper and half the salt. Stir.
Step 2. Finish the Sauce and Prepare the Fish
- Stir in the tahini sauce, remove from heat, and add cilantro.
- Remove the baked fish from the oven. Remove the skin carefully, leaving the scales on for easier peeling.
- Debone the fish and plate it.
Step 3. Plate and Garnish
- Pour the prepared sauce over the fish and garnish with slivered almonds.
Read more: Lebanese Kofta Kebabs Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use fish fillets if you prefer, but bone-in fish provides better flavor.
- Watch the garlic carefully while sautéing to prevent burning.
- Don't worry if the coriander sticks to the pan; this is normal.
- The tahini sauce will help to deglaze the pan.
- Be careful when removing the bones from the hot fish.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute red snapper with another type of fish?
Yes! Other firm, white fish like cod, sea bass, or branzino work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the fish's thickness.
2. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili flakes or paste you add. Start with less and add more to your preference. You can also omit the chili entirely for a milder dish.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Add the fish just before serving to prevent overcooking.
This Spicy Red Snapper (Samkeh Harra) recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine. From its aromatic spices to its tender fish, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients and embark on this flavorful culinary adventure!