Best Traditional Moroccan Lamb Tagine in 1 recipe

Introduction

Moroccan Lamb Tagine is a slow-cooked, aromatic stew made in a special conical clay pot, also called a tagine. The dish is known for its tender lamb, infused with a rich blend of Moroccan spices like cumin, ginger, and cinnamon, along with dried fruits, vegetables, and sometimes nuts. This beloved Moroccan dish is perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or a special cozy meal at home. The result is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience that brings the essence of Moroccan cuisine to life.

Ingredients (Serves 6 people)

1.5 kg lamb (shoulder or leg), cut into chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)

1 cup dried apricots or prunes

1/4 cup almonds, toasted (optional)

1 tablespoon honey

1 cinnamon stick

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

500 ml chicken or vegetable broth

Salt to taste

Lemon wedges for serving

Méthode de préparation

Prepare the Lamb:

In a large bowl, rub the lamb chunks with ground ginger, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, and paprika. Let the lamb marinate in the spices for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a tagine pot or a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Lamb:

Add the spiced lamb chunks to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Liquids and Simmer:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, saffron (if using), and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the tagine and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and cooked through.

Add the Sweet Elements:

Add the dried apricots or prunes and honey during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will add a sweet, rich depth to the dish.

Garnish and Serve:

Stir in the fresh cilantro and parsley just before serving. Top with toasted almonds if using. Serve the lamb tagine with couscous or fresh bread, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Time Required

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6 people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Additional Tips

For a more authentic experience, cook the tagine in a traditional clay tagine pot, but a Dutch oven works well too.
Feel free to customize the dried fruits or nuts to your taste. Dates, raisins, or pine nuts also make excellent additions.

Conclusion

This Traditional Moroccan Lamb Tagine is a feast for the senses, combining the sweetness of dried fruits, the warmth of spices, and the tenderness of slow-cooked lamb. Perfect for special occasions or an exotic weeknight dinner, this dish brings the magic of Morocco to your kitchen. Serve it with couscous or flatbread and enjoy a rich and aromatic meal that will impress your family and friends!