MOROCCAN VEGETABLE TAGINE

Moroccan Vegetable Tagine is a vibrant, aromatic dish that brings together an array of vegetables, warm spices, and sweet dried fruits for a comforting and flavorful meal. Traditionally cooked in a tagine pot, this slow-simmered dish is infused with exotic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric, creating a fragrant sauce that perfectly complements the tender vegetables. Often served with couscous or flatbread, this plant-based dish is hearty, nourishing, and perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests. The rich flavors of the spices, combined with the sweetness of apricots or raisins, make this tagine a true taste of Morocco in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 large zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup dried apricots or raisins
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked couscous or flatbread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the spices: Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the sliced carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and sweet potato. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the spices.
4. Simmer with tomatoes and broth: Add the diced tomatoes, dried apricots (or raisins), chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Adjust seasoning: Taste the tagine and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the Moroccan vegetable tagine over couscous or with flatbread for a complete meal.

This Moroccan Vegetable Tagine is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both warming and satisfying, filled with tender vegetables and infused with the rich, earthy flavors of traditional Moroccan spices. Perfect for a plant-based meal or a cozy dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite!