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1
Combine the oil, garlic, and chiles in a large saucepan or casserole and place over medium heat.
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2
Cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 15 seconds.
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3
Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes.
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4
Then stir in the carrots, celery, potatoes, bay leaves, and cumin; stir once or twice.
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5
Add 1 quart water (or fish stock if you have it) and bring to a boil, then lower the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
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6
Stir in the tomatoes and saffron if youre using it and raise the heat again; cook, uncovered, until the tomatoes break down, about 10 minutes.
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7
Add some salt and pepper along with the paprika; taste and add more of any of these, along with cayenne if necessary (the dish should be slightly hot).
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8
Cover and cook until the vegetables are just about tender.
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9
Add the fish and the zucchini.
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10
(If you are steaming the couscous over the stew, set that up also and cover.)
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11
Simmer the fish for about 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through (a thin-bladed knife inserted into its center will meet little resistance).
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12
Toss the couscous with some of the cooking broth to soften it.
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13
Place it on your serving dish and top with the stew.
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14
Garnish and serve.