Moroccan tagine: How is it made?

HOW IS MOROCCAN TAGINE MADE?

Moroccan tagine is a traditional and extremely flavoursome stew. Its name comes from the heavy, conical-shaped ceramic pot (you’ve probably seen them all over your Instagram feed) in which it’s slow-cooked for several hours, normally over an open fire, or sometimes on top of a piping-hot bed of charcoal.

Tagine is traditionally made with aromatic meats, like lamb and chicken, which are always left on the bone for extra flavour. Red onions are also a must in a tagine – they’re used as a sweet base for the chicken to rest on, and prevent the meat from drying out while it’s simmering.

Next on the ingredients list are some of Morocco’s most popular spices, as you may have already guessed. Ginger, saffron, and cinnamon are all staples in a tagine, as they allow the flavour of the chicken to really shine through. Fresh herbs, including parsley and coriander are also used to add to the zesty, fresh taste of the stew.

Now for the juicy part – like any stew, Moroccan tagine needs plenty of liquid in order to slowly braise the meat and create a gravy-like sauce. It’s important not to cover the entire chicken in water, though, as this can make the dish taste bland. Using as little as 175ml of water ensures the flavours from the chicken or lamb aren’t lost with the rest of the ingredients.

Finally, when it comes to serving tagine, couscous and bread are a must for your plate – both soak up the delicious gravy and are sure to keep you fuelled up for the entire day. Most restaurants and food stalls serving the stuff also give you the option of adding diced green olives, and chopped pieces of lemon peel on top of your tagine – both add a savoury and bitter taste. Delicious.

WHERE CAN I TRY MOROCCAN TAGINE?

If you plan on visiting the colourful city of Marrakech anytime soon, push Jemaa el-Fna to the top of your list. We recommend heading to one of the food stalls in the square to try an authentic stew, where you’ll get to tuck into your meal as you experience the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you’ll find everything from mystical palm readers, to clever snake charmers, and quirky stalls selling those tell-tale patterned rugs and carpets.

Hungry for some tasty Moroccan tagine?

Browse our TUI holidays to Marrakech and Agadir, in Morocco.

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Author: Olivia Hunt