Samkeh harra, also known as Lebanese spicy tahini fish, is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is enjoyed by many. As a seafood lover, I was intrigued to learn more about this dish and its origins. After doing some research, I discovered that samkeh harra has its roots in Lebanese cuisine and is typically made with baked fish that is seasoned with a spicy mixture of herbs and spices.
The name “samkeh harra” translates to “spicy fish” in Arabic, which accurately describes the flavor profile of this dish. The spicy seasoning is made with a combination of tahini and spices, which give the fish a bold and flavorful taste. This dish is often served with a side of rice or vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
One evening, my family and I had lunch at a Lebanese restaurant in Brooklyn. As we went over the menu, I decided to try the Samkeh Harra, a fish dish that caught my eye. After a little while, an old waiter brought it to our table.
As we enjoyed our meal, a belly dancer began to perform in front of the diners. It was a lively and entertaining show that added to the atmosphere of the restaurant.
After the performance ended, I decided to request the recipe for the fish from the restaurant chef. To my delight, he happily agreed to give it to me.
The recipe contained the following ingredients: red snapper or Pacific cod, garlic, tahini paste, raw pine nuts, Italian parsley, lemon juice, water, olive oil, ground coriander, chili powder, and salt.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Here are some dishes that I love to pair with this flavorful dish:
- Grilled Vegetables: The smoky, charred flavor of grilled vegetables complements the spicy and tangy flavors of the Samkeh Harra perfectly. Some of my favorite vegetables to grill include zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
- Rice Pilaf: A simple and classic side dish, rice pilaf is a great option to serve alongside Samkeh Harra. The mild flavor of the rice helps to balance out the bold flavors of the fish.
- Mediterranean Salad: A light and refreshing salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the Samkeh Harra. I like to make a simple Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese.
- Roasted Potatoes: Another classic side dish, roasted potatoes are a great option to pair with Samkeh Harra. The crispy texture of the potatoes is a great contrast to the tender fish, and the mild flavor helps to balance out the spices.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of red snapper or Pacific cod
- 1 cup of raw pine nuts
- 20 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of tahini paste
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped Italian parsley
- 1.5 cups of Lemon Juice
- 4 cups of water
- 1 tbsp of Olive Oil
- 6 tsp of ground coriander
- 1 tsp of chili powder
- 1 tsp of salt
How to Make Samkeh Harra?
Fish baking:
- If the fish smells strong, scrub it with white vinegar and salt, and then wash it with cold water.
- Cut slits in the whole-scaled fish before baking it or use fish fillets.
- Massage the fish with a tablespoon of olive oil and drizzle some lemon juice on it. If it’s a whole fish, you can also tuck lemon slices inside for extra flavor.
- Put the fish on an oven tray greased with olive oil and bake it at 300G for approx. 20-25 minutes.
Garnish making:
- In a little frying pan, combine 1 cup of pine nuts with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes or until they turn lightly brown. Watch out, as they can easily burn.
- Keep half of the toasted pine nuts for topping, and crush the other half in a mortar and pestle to create the sauce.
Sauce making:
- Add the crushed garlic, lemon juice, Tahini paste, water, salt, coriander, and chili powder in a deep saucepan. Stir it thoroughly and cook on medium heat, stirring all the time until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat.
- Grind up half of the pine nuts using a mortar and pestle, then add them to the saucepan. Mix it well and let it simmer.
Serving:
- Put the cooked fish on a large serving plate, pour the sauce over it, and decorate it with finely chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts. Serve it hot with pita bread. It pairs nicely with Hummus and Tabbouleh Salad on the side. Enjoy!
Variations of Samkeh Harra
As I have been exploring the world of Middle Eastern cuisine, I have come across many variations of samkeh harra.
- One variation that I have tried is made with salmon instead of the traditional white fish. The salmon is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices before being baked in the oven. The tahini sauce is then drizzled over the top, and the dish is garnished with chopped parsley and pine nuts.
- Another variation that I have come across is made with shrimp instead of fish. The shrimp is cooked in a spicy tomato sauce that is flavored with garlic, cumin, and coriander. The tahini sauce is then served on the side, along with a fresh salad.
- I have also tried a vegetarian version of this dish, made with tofu instead of fish. The tofu is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices before being baked in the oven. The tahini sauce is then drizzled over the top, and the dish is garnished with chopped parsley and pine nuts.
Overall, I have found that there are many variations of this fish dish, each with its unique twist on this classic Lebanese dish. Whether you prefer fish, shrimp, or tofu, there is a version of this dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
Conclusion
As I conclude my article, I can say that it is truly a delightful dish that is worth trying. The combination of spices and herbs used in the recipe gives the dish a unique flavor that is hard to resist. The dish is not only flavorful but also healthy, as it is made with fresh fish and vegetables.
What I like about it is that it is a dish that can be shared with family and friends. It is often served as a main course during family gatherings or special occasions. The dish is easy to prepare and can be made in large quantities, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.
In conclusion, I highly recommend trying Samkeh Harra if you haven’t already. It is a dish that is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you are a seafood lover or not, this dish is worth a try.
Did you know? You can also make samkeh harra into a pita sandwich.
Get the pita recipe now (by clicking the image below):
