Discover the Savoring Chicken Tagine – A well known Moroccan Dish

Paul | November 21, 2023 | Food, Morocco | No Comments

Tagine is also the name for a Maghrebi, or North African, dish cooked in the tagine pot. Tagine is closely associated with Moroccan cuisine, where slow-cooked savory stews made with meat, poultry, or fish, are cooked with vegetables, aromatic spices, dried fruit, and nuts.

Traditional Preparation: The Chicken Tagine is a classic Moroccan dish that takes its name from the traditional clay pot in which it is cooked. This conical-shaped vessel ensures that the ingredients are cooked slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Exotic Spices and Aromatics: At the heart of the Chicken Tagine is a fragrant blend of spices that gives the dish its distinctive flavor profile. Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and saffron are just a few of the spices commonly used, along with aromatic ingredients like garlic, ginger, and preserved lemons, which add depth and complexity to the dish.

Tender and Juicy Chicken: The star of the Chicken Tagine is, of course, the chicken itself. Typically made with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, the meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy as it simmers in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the aromatic spices and seasonings.

Slow-Cooked Perfection: One of the hallmarks of a great Chicken Tagine is the slow cooking process, which allows the ingredients to develop rich flavors and tender textures. As the tagine simmers gently over low heat, the chicken becomes infused with the flavors of the spices and aromatics, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and aromatic.

Versatile and Adaptable: While the traditional Chicken Tagine is a timeless classic, there are countless variations of the dish to explore. From adding dried fruits like apricots or prunes for a hint of sweetness to incorporating vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions for added depth, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

Serving and Enjoyment: The Chicken Tagine is typically served piping hot, straight from the clay pot to the table, where it is shared among family and friends. Accompanied by fluffy couscous, crusty bread, or steamed rice, the dish is a feast for the senses, inviting you to savor each tender morsel and aromatic bite.

Experience the Magic: Whether you’re dining in a bustling Moroccan souk or recreating the dish in your own kitchen, the Chicken Tagine is a culinary delight that promises to transport you to the vibrant streets of Marrakech with every bite. So gather your ingredients, fire up your tagine, and prepare to experience the magic of this beloved Moroccan dish firsthand.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
8 skinless boneless chicken thighs, halved if large
1 onion, chopped
2 tsp grated fresh root ginger
pinch saffron or tumeric
1 tbsp honey
400g carrot, cut into sticks
small bunch parsley, roughly chopped
lemon wedges, to serve

Method

STEP 1Heat the oil in a large, wide pan with a lid, add the chicken, then fry quickly until lightly coloured. Add the onion and ginger, then fry for a further 2 mins.
STEP 2Add 150ml water, the saffron, honey and carrots, season, then stir well. Bring to the boil, cover tightly, then simmer for 30 mins until the chicken is tender. Uncover and increase the heat for about 5 mins to reduce the sauce a little. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over.