Discover the authentic flavors of Morocco with this traditional tagine recipe. This slow-cooked stew combines tender meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), fresh vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, all cooked in a traditional earthenware pot. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal, this tagine recipe offers a taste of Moroccan cuisine that's both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), cut into chunks

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 teaspoons ground cumin

- 2 teaspoons ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)

- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

- 1 cup beef or chicken broth

- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

- 2 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

- 1 cup dried apricots or dates, chopped

- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Heat the Olive Oil: In a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Meat: Add the meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, ginger, and saffron (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Add Vegetables and Dried Fruits: Add the carrots, potatoes, and dried apricots or dates to the pot. Stir well.

Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the tagine, and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary to keep the stew moist.

Finish and Serve: Stir in the green olives and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Enjoy: Serve the tagine hot with crusty bread or over couscous.

This traditional tagine recipe is sure to impress with its rich, complex flavors and comforting texture. Enjoy the taste of Morocco with every bite!

Nutritional values 

Here's a breakdown of the ingredients and their benefits for your meat stew recipe:

For the Stew:

2 lbs meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), cut into chunks

 - Calories: Approximately 400-600 kcal (depending on meat type)

 - Protein: 30-40g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients for muscle repair and overall health.

2 tablespoons olive oil

 - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

 - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Contains healthy fats, supports heart health, and adds flavor.

1 large onion, finely chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supports heart health and digestion.

3 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: Approximately 27 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: Adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting properties.

2 teaspoons ground cumin

 - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Adds a warm flavor and has antioxidant and digestive benefits.

2 teaspoons ground coriander

 - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Adds flavor and supports digestion and immune function.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Adds warmth and sweetness, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon paprika

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds color and flavor, contains antioxidants.

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

 - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

 - Calories: Approximately 4 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds warmth and spice, has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

Benefits: Adds a unique flavor and color, has antioxidant and mood-boosting properties.

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

 - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins C and A, antioxidants, supports heart health.

1 cup beef or chicken broth

 - Calories: Approximately 15 kcal

Benefits: Adds flavor and nutrients to the stew.

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

 - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, supports eye health and immunity.

2 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

 - Calories: Approximately 260 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 60g

Benefits: Provides energy and essential vitamins and minerals.

1 cup dried apricots or dates, chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits: Provides natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.

1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced

 - Calories: Approximately 80 kcal

 - Fat: 8g

Benefits: Adds a savory flavor and contains healthy fats.

Salt and black pepper to taste

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 1 kcal per tablespoon

Benefits: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, and adds fresh flavor.

This hearty stew combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements, offering a well-rounded dish with a variety of flavors and nutritional benefits.