🍋 Steamed Moroccan Fish with Preserved Lemon and Herbs

A Light, Fragrant Dish Straight from the Moroccan Coast

🌊 Introduction

There’s something magical about the Moroccan coast—the scent of the sea, the bustling fish markets, and the way locals know exactly how to bring out the best in even the simplest catch. One of the most beloved dishes you’ll find in Moroccan seaside towns like Essaouira or Agadir is steamed fish with preserved lemon and herbs.

This recipe is not only light and healthy, but it’s also a celebration of bold North African flavors: citrusy, herbal, and earthy — all gently infused into tender, flaky fish.

I remember tasting this dish for the first time in a friend’s home in Tangier, and I was blown away by how delicate yet flavorful it was.

💚 Why This Dish is Special

Naturally low-fat and protein-rich

Full of Mediterranean and Moroccan flavor
No frying, no heavy sauces — just clean, steamed goodness
Ideal for meal-prep or a light family dinner

Easily adaptable for different types of fish

Whether you’re a fan of light meals or exploring Moroccan cuisine, this dish is a must-try.

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (and why):

Ingredient	Notes
1 whole fish (sea bream, snapper, or trout), cleaned	Choose fresh, firm fish
1 preserved lemon	Adds signature Moroccan tang
2 garlic cloves, minced	Depth and aroma
Fresh parsley and cilantro (½ cup each), finely chopped	For a green, herbal punch
1 tsp ground cumin	Warm, earthy base note
½ tsp ground coriander	Optional, for depth
1 small chili or pinch of chili flakes	For a subtle kick
2 tbsp olive oil	Classic Moroccan richness
Salt and pepper	To taste
Juice of half a lemon	Fresh citrus brightness
Optional: Sliced onion or celery for bed

🍳 Instructions

🐟 1. Clean and Score the Fish

If using a whole fish, score the sides 2–3 times with a sharp knife. This helps the seasoning penetrate deeper. Rinse and pat dry.

🌿 2. Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix:

Chopped herbs

Minced garlic
Cumin, coriander, chili
Olive oil

Lemon juice
A bit of chopped preserved lemon (remove seeds)
Salt and pepper

If you’ve never cooked with preserved lemon before, don’t worry — just use the peel. The flavor is salty, tangy, and truly unique.

🫙 3. Season the Fish

Rub the marinade generously inside the cavity and all over the outside. Tuck extra herbs or lemon slices inside the fish if you like.

Let it rest for 15–30 minutes so the flavors can develop.

🍲 4. Steam It

Use a steamer basket, couscoussier, or any large pot with a rack and lid. Add sliced onions or celery at the base for flavor and steam the fish gently for about 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked (depends on fish size).

Don’t overcook it — the meat should be just opaque and flake easily with a fork.

🍽 How to Serve

Traditionally, this dish is served with:

Warm khobz or batbout
A side of steamed potatoes or carrot salad

A drizzle of the leftover herbed oil from steaming

You can also serve it over couscous or a bed of quinoa for a modern, healthy twist.

🧠 Nutritional Benefits

Nutrient	Benefit
Lean fish protein	Supports muscle repair and energy
Herbs (parsley & cilantro)	High in antioxidants & detox properties
Preserved lemon	Rich in probiotics & vitamin C
Olive oil	Heart-healthy fats
Garlic	Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting

🧊 Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Reheat gently to avoid drying out
Flake leftovers into salads, grain bowls, or wraps

📝 SEO Meta Description

Discover how to make Steamed Moroccan Fish with Preserved Lemon and Herbs. A light, healthy, and fragrant recipe that captures the essence of Moroccan coastal cuisine.

🏷 Suggested Tags

Moroccan Fish Recipes

Steamed Fish with Herbs
Healthy Moroccan Dishes
Mediterranean Seafood

Preserved Lemon Recipes
Gluten-Free Moroccan
Light & Low-Fat Recipes

Moroccan Coastal Cuisine
Traditional Moroccan Flavors
Fresh Herb Fish Recipes

✨ Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that’s both simple and soulful. This steamed Moroccan fish is exactly that — humble ingredients, bold flavor, and a method that keeps the meal light but memorable.

It’s the kind of recipe you make once and then start craving again and again. 🍋🐟