Description
Experience the bold, aromatic flavors of Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, a comforting and exotic dish that combines tender lamb, sweet apricots, and a blend of spices for an unforgettable taste. Slow-cooked in a tagine (or Dutch oven), the lamb becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the apricots add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory richness of the meat. This dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners, served with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ground paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp slivered almonds, toasted (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or tagine pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb chunks on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the lamb and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne (if using) to the pot, stirring to toast the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the lamb to the pot and pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and honey. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the dried apricots to the pot and cover. Reduce heat to low and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and toasted slivered almonds.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the lamb in the spices and olive oil for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- You can substitute dried apricots with raisins or prunes for a different flavor profile.
- This dish pairs perfectly with couscous or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 120
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow-cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan