Exotic Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Cinnamon and Dried Fruit

Lamb Tagine with Cinnamon, Saffron, and Dried Fruit Recipe

Overview:

This delightful Lamb Tagine recipe combines the aromatic flavors of cinnamon, saffron, and dried fruit with tender lamb, creating a dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. Inspired by Moroccan cuisine, this dish is rich in flavor and complexity, yet surprisingly easy to prepare.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6

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Ingredients:

• 1 Anaheim chili, seeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, ground
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds boneless leg of lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup tomato puree
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 3 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2/3 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 4 1/2 cups cooked couscous
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare Spice Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, combine chopped Anaheim chili, cumin seeds, ground coriander, minced ginger, salt, paprika, ground peppercorns, and minced garlic. Mix well and set aside.

2. Brown the Lamb:

   • Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and coat with cooking spray.
   • Add the lamb cubes and cook for about 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Onions:

   • In the same skillet, add chopped onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are tender.

4. Add Tomato Puree and Spice Mixture:

   • Stir in half of the prepared spice mixture and the tomato puree. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors.

5. Simmer with Water:

   • Return the browned lamb to the skillet. Add 1 1/2 cups of water and bring to a boil.

6. Bake the Tagine:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Cover the skillet with foil to seal the handle, then place it in the preheated oven.
   • Bake the tagine, covered, for 1 hour.

7. Add Vegetables and Spices:

   • Remove the skillet from the oven and carefully uncover.
   • Stir in chopped green bell peppers, sliced carrot, saffron threads, and cinnamon sticks.
   • Cover the skillet again and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

8. Incorporate Dried Fruit:

   • Uncover the skillet and stir in the remaining half of the spice mixture and chopped dried apricots.
   • Cover and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

9. Serve:

   • Remove the cinnamon sticks from the tagine.
   • Serve the lamb tagine hot over cooked couscous.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Tips for Success:

• Roasting Spices: Toasting whole spices enhances their flavor. Use a dry skillet over gentle heat and stir constantly until aromatic.
• Meat Browning: Ensure the lamb is well-browned to enhance the depth of flavor in the tagine.
• Oven Temperature: Maintain a low oven temperature to slowly cook the lamb and allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions:

• This Lamb Tagine pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Accompany with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!

Prepare to delight your taste buds with this exotic and comforting Lamb Tagine recipe. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it brings the flavors of Moroccan cuisine right to your table. Bon appétit!