LAMB TAGINE

Lamb Tagine is a traditional Moroccan dish that features tender lamb slow-cooked with a fragrant blend of spices, dried fruits, and vegetables. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander, along with the sweetness of dried apricots or raisins, creates a rich and flavorful stew with a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Typically cooked in a tagine pot, this dish is known for its aromatic depth and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it over couscous or with warm flatbread for a hearty and comforting meal that brings the exotic flavors of North Africa to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lamb shoulder or stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dried apricots or raisins
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the lamb: In a large Dutch oven or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the lamb and set aside.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the spices: Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, coriander, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Simmer the tagine: Return the browned lamb to the pot, along with the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, dried apricots or raisins, and cinnamon stick. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve: Garnish the lamb tagine with fresh cilantro or parsley and sliced almonds if desired. Serve hot over couscous or with flatbread.

This Lamb Tagine is a warm, aromatic dish that brings the exotic flavors of Morocco to your home for a hearty, delicious meal!