Fish Sayadieh – Lebanese Spiced Fish & Rice

Fish Sayadieh is a celebrated Lebanese coastal dish featuring whole roasted or poached fish served over a bed of saffron and caramelized onion-spiced rice, topped with toasted pine nuts and served with a rich fish broth on the side. A true taste of the Lebanese sea.

Ingredients

• 1 whole sea bass or red snapper (about 1.5kg)
• 3 cups long-grain rice
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp saffron, dissolved in warm water
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Pine nuts, toasted, for garnish
• Fresh lemon wedges and parsley for serving
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and cumin. Roast or pan-fry until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, caramelize the onions in olive oil until deep golden brown — this is the key to the dish's flavor.
3. Add the rice, saffron water, turmeric, and coriander. Pour in fish stock or water and cook until rice is fluffy.
4. Plate the spiced rice, lay the fish on top, and garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley.
5. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of warm fish broth.

A dish that brings the flavors of the Lebanese coast straight to your table.