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Lamb and Apricot Tagine with Saffron and Almonds
Moroccan·non-vegetarian·medium

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.

145 min(prep 25 + cook 120)
6 servings
520 kcal
0

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

520 kcalper serving
Protein15g19%
Carbs35g45%
Fat15g19%
Fiber4g5%
Sugar8g10%

Directions

  1. 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. 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. 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. 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. 5

    Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. Serve hot over steamed couscous or with crusty bread.

  6. 6

    For extra richness, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top just before serving—a classic Moroccan touch.

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