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A whole fish baked in a simple, clean tahini sauce with lemon and parsley — the everyday coastal Sunday fish dish. This is the domestic, unfussy version that sits between the elaborate samke harra and a plain grilled fish: the tahini sauce keeps the fish moist and creates a silky, tart pan sauce.
⏱ 60 min🍽 4 servings📍 Lebanese coast
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The story
Samaka bi tahini is the Lebanese coastal home cook's workhorse fish dish. Where samke harra is celebratory — the dish you make for guests — samaka bi tahini is Sunday lunch for the family, made with whatever whole fish the morning market offered. The tahini sauce here is thin and pourable, meant to baste the fish as it bakes rather than to crown it. Every coastal family makes it slightly differently — some add a little onion, some add coriander, some add chili — but the base of tahini, lemon, and garlic is invariable. In the Lebanese diaspora in Australia, where Lebanese immigrants cluster around Sydney's Lakemba neighborhood, this dish is made weekly and has become a fixture at church community lunches.
Frequently asked questions
What is Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce?
A whole fish baked in a simple, clean tahini sauce with lemon and parsley — the everyday coastal Sunday fish dish. This is the domestic, unfussy version that sits between the elaborate samke harra and a plain grilled fish: the tahini sauce keeps the fish moist and creates a silky, tart pan sauce.
Where is Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce from?
Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce comes from Lebanese coast. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce vegetarian?
No — as written, Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce includes meat, fish, or meat-based stock, so it is not vegetarian. See the ingredient list for the specific ingredients used.
What can I use instead of lemon juice in Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce?
The lemon juice called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce its traditional character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce?
In a Levantine mains spread, Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce is typically served with rice or warm flatbread, a simple salad such as fattoush or tabbouleh, and pickles or yogurt on the side.
Can I make Whole Baked Fish in Tahini Sauce ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step audio narration (text-to-speech) guides you hands-free. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
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