
Lamb Tagine with Prunes and Almonds
Imagine the scent of cinnamon and saffron drifting through your kitchen as a slow-braised lamb tagine simmers on the stove. This is the heart of Moroccan hospitality—tender, fall-apart lamb cooked with sweet prunes, toasted almonds, and a whisper of honey. The meat melts into a rich, fragrant sauce that begs to be scooped up with crusty bread or fluffy couscous. You’ll taste layers of warmth from ginger and turmeric, a hint of floral rose water, and the satisfying contrast of savory and sweet. Every spoonful feels like a journey through a Marrakech souk, alive with color and spice. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a memory in the making.
Ingredients
- boneless lamb shoulder, cubed1 kg
- large yellow onion, finely chopped2
- garlic cloves, minced4
- fresh ginger, grated2 tbsp
- ground cinnamon1 tsp
- ground turmeric1 tsp
- saffron threads, crumbled1/4 tsp
- black pepper1/2 tsp
- salt1 tsp
- olive oil3 tbsp
- chicken stock500 ml
- pitted prunes200 g
- honey2 tbsp
- rose water (optional)1 tbsp
- blanched almonds, toasted100 g
- fresh cilantro, chopped3 tbsp
Nutrition
Directions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the lamb with half the onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, saffron, pepper, and salt. Mix well, cover, and let marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- 2
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or tagine over medium heat. Add the remaining onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 8 minutes. Add the marinated lamb and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Pour in the chicken stock, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is very tender.
- 4
Add the prunes, honey, and rose water (if using). Stir gently, then continue to cook uncovered for 20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the prunes are plump and glossy.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. Serve hot over fluffy couscous or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.
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