Sayadia Fish

Sayadia Fish (Egyptian Spiced Fish with Rice) Recipe

Sayadia Fish is a classic Egyptian seafood dish featuring perfectly spiced fish served with fragrant rice cooked in a rich tomato-based broth. Popular in coastal cities like Alexandria and Port Said, this dish is a celebration of Egypt’s love for seafood. The fish is often grilled or fried and infused with aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and bay leaves. Served with caramelized onions and a side of tahini sauce, Sayadia Fish is a flavorful and satisfying dish that highlights Egypt’s vibrant coastal cuisine.

Ingredients

 

For the Fish:

  • 500g white fish fillets (such as sea bass, tilapia, or cod)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

 

For the Rice:

  • 2 cups Egyptian rice
  • 3 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

 

For Serving:

  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Spicy tomato sauce (optional)
  • Green salad

 

Instructions

 

Step 1: Marinate the Fish

  1. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, paprika, turmeric, and minced garlic.
  2. Coat the fish fillets with the marinade and let them rest for at least 30 minutes.

 

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn deep golden brown.
  3. Remove half of the caramelized onions and set them aside for garnish.

 

Step 3: Cook the Rice

  1. In the same pan with the remaining caramelized onions, add the rice and stir well.
  2. Add cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

 

Step 4: Fry the Fish

  1. Lightly coat the marinated fish fillets in flour.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. Remove and drain on paper towels.

 

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

  1. Fluff the cooked rice and transfer it to a serving dish.
  2. Place the fried fish fillets on top.
  3. Garnish with the reserved caramelized onions, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.
  4. Serve with a side of spicy tomato sauce and green salad.

 

Enjoy your homemade Sayadia Fish! 🐟🍚🍋