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How to Make Moroccan Chickpea Tagine

septiembre 20, 2024

Moroccan Chickpea Tagine is a comforting, flavorful dish packed with aromatic spices, vegetables, and hearty chickpeas. It’s a wonderful option for those seeking a plant-based meal that’s rich in nutrients and easy to prepare. Let’s walk through the ingredients and steps to make this traditional North African dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped (optional for sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked couscous or rice, to serve

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the base
    Heat olive oil in a large pot or traditional tagine over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add the vegetables
    Stir in the carrots and zucchini, cooking them for an additional 3-4 minutes. You can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season—eggplant or bell peppers work well too.
  3. Spice it up
    Mix in all the spices: cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, ginger, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing the flavors to bloom.
  4. Incorporate the chickpeas and tomatoes
    Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, dried apricots, and raisins. The apricots and raisins are optional but provide a nice sweetness that complements the spices. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer with broth
    Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover. Let the tagine cook gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
  6. Adjust seasoning and consistency
    Taste the tagine and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to let the liquid reduce.
  7. Serve and garnish
    Serve your chickpea tagine over fluffy couscous or rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright, herbal finish.

Tips for the Best Chickpea Tagine

  • Use a traditional tagine: If you have a ceramic tagine, it’s perfect for slow-cooking and enhancing the flavors.
  • Customize the veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables you enjoy, like eggplant or sweet potatoes.
  • Make it ahead: The flavors of the tagine improve with time, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance.

This Moroccan Chickpea Tagine is a delicious, warming meal that brings the exotic spices of North Africa into your kitchen. Enjoy it with family or friends, paired with couscous or a simple side salad!