Spicy Sweet-and-Sour Salmon With Dates (Qaliyeh-e Khorma)

Ingredients for Spicy Sweet-and-Sour Salmon With Dates (Qaliyeh-e Khorma)

• 35g coriander seeds

• 1 large red onion (about 1lb), diced into 3/8" squares

• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt

• 12 Persian cucumbers, 1/4" to 3/8" dice

• 60ml apple cider vinegar

• 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 tablespoon plain flour

• 4–6 thick skinless salmon fillets

• 60ml olive oil, divided

• 5 cloves garlic, finely grated

• 240ml apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons date molasses

• 1 scant teaspoon cayenne

• 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves

• 5 medjool dates, pitted and halved

• 150g fresh herbs such as coriander leaves, basil leaves, or chopped spring onions, for serving

• Kateh, for serving (optional)

How to make Spicy Sweet-and-Sour Salmon With Dates (Qaliyeh-e Khorma)

In a medium-sized skillet over low heat, toast the coriander seeds, shaking the skillet constantly until the aroma rises. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, place the onion, salt, and coriander seeds, and toss. Add the cucumber and pour the vinegar over it. Toss well and set aside.

Do Ahead: This pickle can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

In a small bowl, mix together all the dusting ingredients and set aside.

Rinse the fish and pat dry. Place fillets on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Dust both sides of the fish fillets and arrange on the sheet pan. Cover and keep cool until ready to cook.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in wide, non-stick skillet a over high heat until very hot, but not smoking. Sear the fish until brown on both sides (about 1 minute on each side). Remove the fish from heat and set aside.

In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons oil, reduce heat to medium heat, add the garlic and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.

Add the vinegar, molasses, cayenne, and fenugreek leaves, and give it a stir. Return the fish to the pan and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat until the fish is tender and the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add the dates, cover and keep warm until ready to serve.

Serve over rice, with a bowl of fresh herbs and the onion and cucumber pickle

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.