The most delicious Arabic food

Deliciously Preparing Mullet Fish with Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mullet fish is a flavorful and nutritious seafood option that pairs perfectly with a rich, savory sauce. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-fried, this dish will be juicy, aromatic, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare delicious mullet fish with sauce at home!

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 2-4 whole mullet fish, cleaned and gutted (or 4 fillets)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (or lemon juice)
• ½ cup fish stock or water
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Fish:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. If using whole fish, make 2-3 diagonal cuts on each side for better seasoning absorption.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, and coriander.
4. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the fish (inside and out). Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes for best flavor.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili flakes.
4. Pour in fish stock or water and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
5. Stir in vinegar or lemon juice, then remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. In a baking dish, spread half of the prepared sauce.
2. Place the mullet fish on top, then cover with the remaining sauce.
3. Drizzle extra olive oil over the dish.

4. Bake the Fish:

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the fish to brown slightly.
3. If using fillets, check after 15-20 minutes, as they cook faster.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. Serve hot with white rice, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
3. Add a lemon wedge on the side for extra freshness.

Tips for the Best Mullet Fish with Sauce:

✅ Use fresh mullet fish for the best texture and flavor.
✅ Let the fish marinate for at least 15 minutes for richer taste.
✅ Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to develop a nice golden crust.
✅ For a spicy kick, add extra red chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
✅ Pair with a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Now you have a delicious mullet fish with sauce ready to enjoy! Would you like a variation, like a grilled version or a spicier sauce? 🐟🔥