
Lamb and Apricot Tagine with Saffron and Almonds
Imagine the scent of saffron and cinnamon drifting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm Moroccan embrace. This tagine is a slow-cooked symphony: tender lamb falling apart at the touch of a fork, sweet apricots that melt into the savory sauce, and a final shower of toasted almonds for crunch. You’ll build layers of flavor starting with golden onions and garlic, then add ginger, turmeric, and a pinch of saffron threads. The magic happens in the clay pot, but a heavy Dutch oven works beautifully too. Serve it over fluffy couscous, and you’ll understand why this dish is a cornerstone of Moroccan hospitality. Each spoonful is a story of spice routes and sun-drenched orchards.
Ingredients
- lamb shoulder, cut into chunks1kg
- large onions, finely chopped2
- garlic cloves, minced4
- fresh ginger, grated1 tbsp
- ground turmeric1 tsp
- ground cinnamon1 tsp
- saffron threads1/2 tsp
- dried apricots, halved150g
- toasted almonds60g
- olive oil3 tbsp
- salt1 tsp
- black pepper1/2 tsp
- chicken stock500ml
- fresh cilantro, chopped3 tbsp
Nutrition
Directions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a heavy tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the lamb chunks on all sides, about 5 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- 2
In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft and golden, about 8 minutes. Stir in ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, and crumbled saffron. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3
Return the lamb to the pot. Add salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 1 hour 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4
Add the dried apricots to the pot and continue cooking, covered, for another 30 minutes, until the lamb is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. Serve hot over steamed couscous or with crusty bread.
- 6
For extra richness, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top just before serving—a classic Moroccan touch.
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