How to Make Beef Tagine: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Beef tagine is a delicious Moroccan dish that is full of rich flavors and aromas. It is a slow-cooked stew that brings together tender beef, warm spices, and sweet fruits. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing a taste of Morocco right to your table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Using a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that impresses everyone. The slow cooking method allows the beef to become tender and juicy while the spices blend beautifully together. Plus, it is a great way to explore Moroccan cuisine and introduce new flavors into your cooking.

How to Make Beef Tagine

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck or shoulder, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dried apricots, halved
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds for garnish

Directions:

1. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sear the meat in batches until golden brown.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onions until they are soft.
4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant.
5. Mix in the spices and stir until they release their aroma.
6. Return the beef to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
7. Bring everything to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours.
8. Stir in the honey, lemon juice, halves of apricots, and olives. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
10. Garnish with the chopped cilantro, parsley, and toasted almonds before serving.

How to Serve Beef Tagine

Serve the beef tagine hot, accompanied by some warm bread, couscous, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is great for gatherings and will surely be a hit!

How to Store Beef Tagine

Let the beef tagine cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well for up to three months. Just reheat gently before serving.

Tips to Make Beef Tagine

• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
• For extra flavor, marinate the beef in spices and lemon juice overnight.
• Serve with a side of fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

Variation

You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrition. For a sweeter twist, consider adding more dried fruits like raisins or dates.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, chicken can be used as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time since chicken cooks faster than beef.

2. Is beef tagine spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce or omit the chili pepper for a milder dish.

3. Can I make beef tagine in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can follow the steps up to searing the meat, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.