Moroccan · Main course
Chraime (Moroccan-Jewish Spicy Fish)
Chraime is a fiery, garlicky tomato fish stew beloved of North African Jewish tables, especially before Shabbat and at Rosh Hashana — firm white fish or steaks simmered in a red sauce of tomato, garlic, paprika, cumin and plenty of chilli. Served with challah or bread to soak up the vivid, spicy sauce, it is bold and unforgettable.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Total
- 45 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Easy
Ingredients
- 800 g firm white fish steaks (grouper, cod or similar)
- 8 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tomatoes, grated
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin and 1 tsp caraway
- 1–2 tsp chilli flakes or harissa, to taste
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bunch coriander and lemon, salt to serve
Method
- 1
Bloom the spices
Warm the oil with the garlic, paprika, cumin, caraway and chilli over low heat, stirring, so the spices bloom without burning.
- 2
Build the sauce
Add the tomato paste and grated tomato with a cup of water and simmer to a thick, red, glossy sauce.
- 3
Lay in the fish
Season the fish, settle the pieces into the sauce in a single layer and spoon sauce over them.
- 4
Simmer gently
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, without stirring, until the fish is just cooked and has flavoured the sauce.
- 5
Finish
Scatter with coriander, squeeze over lemon and serve hot with bread to mop the sauce.
Chef's tips
- Bloom the paprika gently in oil for depth, but watch closely — paprika scorches and turns bitter in seconds.
- Don't stir once the fish is in; spoon sauce over it instead so the pieces stay whole.
- Chraime is meant to be assertively spicy; adjust the chilli, but keep it bold to be authentic.
Frequently asked questions
What fish works best?
Firm, meaty white fish that holds together in the sauce — grouper is classic, but cod, hake or sea bass steaks all work well.
Why is chraime eaten before Shabbat?
Fish is traditional for Shabbat and holidays in North African Jewish homes, and chraime's make-ahead sauce and bold flavour make it a favourite for Friday night and Rosh Hashana.