There’s something magically comforting about gathering the family around the table to enjoy a hearty dish like Lamb Tagine. This Moroccan-inspired gem is brimming with tender pieces of lamb, an enchanting mix of spices, sweet apricots, and crunchy almonds. It’s not just a meal – it’s an experience that evokes cozy, joyful memories and an explosion of exotic flavors.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
- 2 cups beef or lamb broth
- 1 cup canned tomatoes, crushed
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the lamb chunks and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground ginger, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Return the browned lamb to the pot, along with any juices. Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and saffron water. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 1.5 hours or until the lamb is tender.
- Add the dried apricots to the pot and continue to cook for another 30 minutes, until the apricots are soft and plump.
- Season with salt to taste. Stir in the toasted almonds.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Helpful Tips & Variations
Feel free to substitute the lamb with beef or chicken if preferred. For a vegetarian option, replace lamb with chickpeas and use vegetable broth. If apricots aren’t available, dried figs or prunes make a delicious alternative.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this Lamb Tagine with a side of fluffy couscous and a fresh green salad. A glass of chilled mint tea or a bold red wine complements the dish beautifully.
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