Algerian Tajin Zitoun, a North African dish, features lamb or chicken with spices and olives,served with couscous or bread.Perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Algerian Tajin Zitoun, or Olive Tagine, is a traditional North African dish featuring lamb or chicken cooked with spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. The addition of olives provides a briny, tangy flavor, creating a hearty, satisfying meal. Typically served with couscous or bread, it reflects Algeria's rich culinary heritage and is ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Here is a step-by-step method for making Tajin Zitoun:

Ingredients:

1- 1 whole chicken cut into 8 to 10 portions

2- 4 tbsp chopped parsley

3- 4 medium carrots sliced

4- 1 medium onion finely chopped

5- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped

6- 1 tbsp lemon juice

7- 1 tsp turmeric

8- 1/4 tsp ginger powder

9- 2 tbsp olive oil

10-1 cup of green pitted olives or pimento stuffed olives

11- 1 tsp salt or to taste

12- 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1- In a saucepan over medium heat, put olive oil.

2- Add onion, garlic, and chicken pieces.

3- Season with salt, pepper, ginger and turmeric.

4- Make sure to not put too much salt, as you will be adding olives later and the olives are salty.

5- Add lemon juice and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley.

6- Saute the chicken with the vegetables for about 10 minutes.

7- Add carrots and hot water (the water should cover the chicken).

8- Let cook for about 20 minutes on medium to medium low until the chicken is tender.

9- In meanwhile, boil the olives in water for 5 minutes. Rinse, drain and set aside.

10- Once the chicken is tender, toss in the green olives and let cook with the chicken for about 10 minutes.

11- The sauce should be thick and reduced.

12- Take out the chicken pieces from the sauce and brown them in 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (this step is optional).

13- Check the seasoning, then turn off the heat.

14- Sprinkle with the remaining chopped parsley (optional).

15- Serve the chicken in the sauce with bread.

Note:

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Algerian dish!

Nutrition Facts:

The nutrition facts for Tajin Zitoun can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. However, I can provide you with a general overview of the nutrition information based on the ingredients you provided:

Please note that the following information is an approximation and may vary based on the specific preparation method and ingredient brands used.

Whole Chicken (8-10 portions):

• Calories: The number of calories will depend on the size and cut of the chicken, as well as whether the skin is included or removed.
• Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein.
• Fat: The fat content will vary depending on the cut of the chicken and whether the skin is included or removed.
• Carbohydrates: Chicken is low in carbohydrates.

benefits: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, chicken helps in building and repairing tissues, supports immune function, and is a good source of energy.

Chopped Parsley (4 tbsp):

• Calories: Approximately 1-2 calories
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.2 grams

benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K, parsley may help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve digestion.

Carrots (4 medium, sliced):

• Calories: Approximately 52 calories
• Protein: Approximately 1.2 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0.3 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 12 grams

benefits: Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins, carrots are great for eye health, immune function, and skin health.

Onion (1 medium, finely chopped):

• Calories: Approximately 44 calories
• Protein: Approximately 1.1 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 10 grams

benefits: High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, onions may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support heart health.

Garlic Cloves (4 cloves, finely chopped):

• Calories: Approximately 16 calories
• Protein: Approximately 0.7 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 3.5 grams

benefits: Known for its medicinal properties, garlic may help boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart health.

Lemon Juice (1 tbsp):

• Calories: Approximately 4 calories
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.3 grams

benefits: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon juice may aid digestion, promote hydration, and support weight loss.

Turmeric (1 tsp):

• Calories: Approximately 9 calories
• Protein: Approximately 0.3 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0.2 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 2 grams

benefits: Contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric may help improve brain function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Ginger Powder (1/4 tsp):

• Calories: Approximately 2 calories
• Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams
• Fat: Approximately 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.5 grams

benefits: Known for its digestive properties, ginger may help reduce nausea, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp):

• Calories: Approximately 239 calories
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Approximately 27 grams
• Carbohydrates: Negligible

benefits: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil may help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and protect against heart disease.

Green Olives or Pimento Stuffed Olives (1 cup):

• Calories: The number of calories will depend on the specific type and brand of olives used.
• Protein: Varies based on the type of olives.
• Fat: Varies based on the type of olives.
• Carbohydrates: Varies based on the type of olives.

benefits: Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, olives may help protect against inflammation, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and support heart health.

Salt (1 tsp):

• Calories: Negligible
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Negligible

benefits: Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, salt should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues.

Pepper (1/2 tsp):

• Calories: Negligible
• Protein: Negligible
• Fat: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: Negligible

benefits: Contains antioxidants and may help improve digestion, increase metabolism, and support weight loss.

It's important to note that these nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on several factors. Additionally, the cooking method, portion sizes, and additional ingredients used can affect the overall nutritional profile of the dish.

Tajin Zitoun is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin C. Enjoy this delicious Moroccan dish with your family and friends!