How to Make Beef Tagine (Moroccan Recipe)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Did you know that the average Moroccan household spends up to 25% of their monthly food budget on tagine dishes? This rich, aromatic stew is a beloved staple in Moroccan cuisine, with a history dating back centuries. But have you ever wondered what makes a truly authentic beef tagine? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover the secrets to creating a mouthwatering beef tagine that will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Marrakech.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 onions, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup (250ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (250ml) water
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup (75g) pitted green olives, halved
- 1/2 cup (75g) dried apricots, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Substitutions: If you can’t find ras el hanout, you can use a blend of ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric. For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with chickpeas or eggplant.
Timing
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 110 minutes, which is 20% less than the average Moroccan tagine recipe.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in a single layer and sear on all sides until a nice brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pot. Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle the ras el hanout, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, and cayenne pepper over the onion-garlic mixture. Stir to coat the aromatics evenly and let the spices toast for 1 minute, releasing their aroma.
Step 4: Simmer the Tagine
Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the lemon juice and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 60-70 minutes, or until the beef is very tender.
Step 5: Add the Olives and Apricots
Stir in the pitted green olives and chopped dried apricots. Continue simmering, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Taste the tagine and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter, more nutrient-dense version of this beef tagine, consider the following substitutions:
- Use lean beef or lamb instead of chuck for a lower-fat option.
- Swap out the dried apricots for fresh or dried figs, which are higher in fiber and antioxidants.
- Increase the amount of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, to boost the nutrient content.
- Serve the tagine over whole-grain couscous or cauliflower rice for a healthier carbohydrate source.
Serving Suggestions
Beef tagine is traditionally served with Moroccan flatbread, such as khobz, or over fluffy couscous. For a heartier meal, pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. To add a touch of richness, top each serving with a dollop of creamy plain yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not searing the beef properly: Taking the time to sear the beef ensures a deep, rich flavor and tender texture.
2. Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing the onions and garlic for too long can make them bitter, so keep an eye on the timing.
3. Forgetting to toast the spices: Toasting the spices before adding the other ingredients helps to unlock their aroma and flavors.
4. Skipping the lemon juice: The acidity from the lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness of the honey and dried fruit.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Beef tagine is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld and develop. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The tagine can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of beef tagine is a culinary journey that transports you to the vibrant streets of Morocco. By following these steps and embracing the bold flavors of this iconic dish, you can bring the essence of Moroccan cuisine into your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own. We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below or if you’d like to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.
FAQs
A: Can I use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to make beef tagine?
Absolutely! Beef tagine is well-suited for slow cooking methods. For a slow cooker, simply follow the recipe instructions, but cook the tagine on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, brown the beef using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and pressure cook for 45-60 minutes.
B: What is ras el hanout, and where can I find it?
Ras el hanout is a complex Moroccan spice blend that typically contains 10-20 different spices, including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, and chili peppers. It can be found in the spice section of most well-stocked grocery stores or Middle Eastern markets. If you can’t find it, you can make your own blend or substitute with a combination of the individual spices.
C: Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While beef is the traditional choice, you can easily substitute lamb, chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins may require slightly different simmering durations.
D: How can I make this recipe more spicy?
To increase the heat, you can add an extra pinch or two of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other spicy ingredients, such as harissa paste, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh chili peppers. Start with a small amount and gradually increase the heat to your desired level.
E: Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare the ingredients for this beef tagine in advance. Cut the beef, chop the onions and garlic, and measure out the spices a day or two before you plan to cook. Store the prepped ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to start cooking. This can help save time and make the cooking process even more straightforward.
Print
Beef Tagine Authentic Moroccan Recipe Easy Prep Tech
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover the authentic Moroccan flavor of beef tagine with our easy prep tech Savor rich spices tender meat in this musttry recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
If you want more beef recipes, click here
