A classic Lebanese dish, Samkeh Harra, or Lebanese Spicy Fish, combines a crispy fried whole fish with a rich, aromatic sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, chili, and fragrant spices. The fish is often garnished with toasted pine nuts, giving it a delightful nutty crunch that complements the bold, spicy flavors of the dish. Typically served with fresh vegetables and flatbread, this dish is a centerpiece in Lebanese feasts and family gatherings.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 1 whole white fish (such as red snapper or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Olive oil for frying
For the spicy tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green chili peppers, finely chopped
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Season the Fish
Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly and pat it dry. Rub the fish inside and out with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and chili peppers, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the spices to blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh cilantro just before removing from heat. Set aside.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
Heat enough olive oil in a large frying pan to shallow fry the fish. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the whole fish and fry for about 5-6 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the fish, until the skin is crispy and golden brown and the fish is cooked through. Remove and place the fish on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Place the fried fish on a large serving plate. Generously spoon the spicy tomato sauce over the fish, ensuring it is well-coated. Garnish with toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of vegetables or Lebanese flatbread.
Tips and Tricks
- Cooking the Fish: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the fish, but not too hot to avoid burning. The fish should cook evenly and develop a crispy golden crust.
- Balancing the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili peppers or omit the chili powder. For more heat, leave the seeds in the peppers.
- Enhancing the Flavor: Toasting the pine nuts before garnishing adds an extra depth of flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve Samkeh Harra with Lebanese flatbread or pita and a side of fresh vegetables such as cucumber and tomato salad. Rice pilaf or roasted potatoes also pair wonderfully with this dish.
- Lemon Slices: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the fish for an added layer of zestiness that complements the spices.
Wine Pairing
A Crisp White Wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the spices and rich tomato sauce in this dish. The wine’s acidity pairs well with the fried fish and lemon juice, balancing the overall richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
This balanced meal is rich in protein and healthy fats from the fish and olive oil. Pine nuts add healthy fats, while the tomato sauce provides fiber and vitamins. The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those monitoring their carb intake.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free. To avoid cross-contamination, ensure the ingredients, such as spices, are certified gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Samkeh Harra is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is dairy-free, perfect for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet.
- Nut-Free: For those with nut allergies, simply omit the pine nuts from the garnish. The dish will still have plenty of flavor without them.
- Vegan Option: While the dish is centered on fish, you can adapt the spicy sauce and use it with vegetables such as eggplant or tofu for a vegan version.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftover fish and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to keep the fish crispy.
About Samkeh Harra
Samkeh Harra is a traditional Lebanese fish dish from the coastal regions. Known for its bold flavors, this dish celebrates the Mediterranean’s bountiful seafood, seasoned with spices commonly used in Lebanese cooking. Lebanese cuisine focuses on freshness, herbs, and spices, and this dish is a perfect example of how these elements combine to create a satisfying, flavorful meal.
Cultural Context
In Lebanese culture, seafood is often enjoyed during family feasts, especially in coastal towns. Samkeh Harra is a popular dish for celebrations and gatherings, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Adding pine nuts and fresh vegetables is a nod to the Mediterranean influence in Lebanese cuisine, where olive oil, nuts, and fresh produce reign supreme. The dish is also known for its versatility, with variations that may include grilling or baking the fish instead of frying it, adapting the recipe to personal preferences and regional influences.
