Samke harra – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Lebanon Region / Locale: Mina Servings: Serves 4
Lebanon Region / Locale: Mina Servings: Serves 4Samke Harra is a traditional Lebanese seafood dish renowned for its bold and spicy flavors. Originating from the coastal regions of Lebanon, this dish typically features fish enhanced with a rich, tangy sauce made from tahini, lemon, and chili. The combination of aromatic spices and the creamy texture of the sauce makes it a standout dish, offering a taste of the Levantine sea to the home cook’s table.
Ingredients
- Whole fish (such as snapper or sea bass) – 1.5 kg
- Olive oil – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- Tahini – 1/2 cup / 120 g
- Lemon juice – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- Garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- Ground cumin – 1 tsp / 2 g
- Ground coriander – 1 tsp / 2 g
- Red chili flakes – 1 tsp / 2 g
- Salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- Fresh parsley, chopped – 1/4 cup / 15 g
- Pine nuts, toasted – 1/4 cup / 35 g
- Water – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Clean the fish, pat dry with paper towels, and place on a baking tray.
- Rub the fish with olive oil and season with salt. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- In a bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes. Gradually add water until smooth.
- Once the fish is done, remove from the oven and pour the tahini sauce over.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts. Serve hot.
Substitutions
- Whole fish -> Fish fillets
- Tahini -> Sunflower seed butter
- Pine nuts -> Slivered almonds
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the fish with lemon juice and spices before baking to enhance the flavor.
- Increase the amount of garlic to suit personal taste preferences.
- Add a layer of sliced onions or tomatoes beneath the fish before baking for additional flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
