Ramadan Recipe: Sayadieh (Fish and Rice)

Sayadieh, a flavorful fish and rice dish, is a perfect addition to your Ramadan table. With fragrant spices, tender fish, and aromatic rice, it’s both comforting and nourishing after a day of fasting. This traditional meal brings warmth and togetherness, making it an ideal choice for iftar with family and friends.
Read More: Ramadan Recipe: Homemade Croutons
This recipe was crafted by our esteemed culinary advisor, Chef Sarah.
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This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here
Ingredients of Sayadieh
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- 25 Minutes
- 6 Serving
- 441 Calories
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp seafood seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Marinade
- 6 pieces of Kingfish fillet, or any kind you prefer
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 tbsp seafood seasoning
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp turmeric
Fish
- 1 tomato, quartered
- 1 small chili pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bundle of fresh coriander
- 2 red onions, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp seafood seasoning
- 3 cups long-grain rice
- 2 dried limes
Rice
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Method & Directions of Sayadieh
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- 60 Minutes
- Soak the Rice
تم نسخ الرابطStart by soaking the long-grain rice in warm water for about 45 minutes. This helps the grains cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors later.
- Prepare the Marinade
تم نسخ الرابطMix lemon juice, ground coriander, cumin, black pepper, salt, seafood seasoning, minced garlic, and white vinegar in a bowl. If you don’t have seafood seasoning, you can make your own by combining black, red, and white pepper with oregano and rosemary for a homemade spice blend.
- Brush the Fish Fillet
تم نسخ الرابطGenerously brush the marinade onto the fish fillet, making sure to massage it in so the flavors soak deep into the fish. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the coating.
- Prepare the Coating
تم نسخ الرابطIn a separate bowl, combine flour, seafood seasoning, ground coriander, cumin, black pepper, and turmeric. Dip the marinated fish into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour for a light, crispy texture.
- Fry the Fish
تم نسخ الرابطHeat about half a cup of cooking oil in a pan over low heat. Fry the coated fish until it turns golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil and set aside.
- Blend the Rice Sauce
تم نسخ الرابطIn a food processor, blend tomatoes, chili, minced garlic, and fresh coriander until smooth. This will be the rich, flavorful base for the rice.
- Cook the Onions
تم نسخ الرابطIn a large pot, add ¼ cup of the oil used for frying the fish. Toss in the onions and cook them until they turn golden brown and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Rice Sauce
تم نسخ الرابطPour the blended rice sauce over the cooked onions and mix well. Let it bubble for a minute before adding tomato paste, salt, pepper, ground coriander, cumin, and seafood seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add the Rice
تم نسخ الرابطDrain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring it into the bubbling sauce. Adjust the salt if needed, then pour in about 4 cups of hot water along with two pieces of dried lime. Cover the pot and let the rice cook until tender.
- Add the Fried Fish
تم نسخ الرابطHalfway through cooking the rice, place half of the fried fish pieces on top. This allows some pieces to soak in the sauce while others stay crispy. Sprinkle with fresh coriander and let the dish finish cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy
تم نسخ الرابطFluff the rice and transfer it to a serving platter. Arrange the remaining crispy fried fish on top, garnish with fresh coriander and lemon slices, and serve warm. Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish!