Try this classic vegetarian Moroccan tagine recipe at home
The Moroccan tagine is a storied North African dish, named after the unique earthenware pot used for its preparation. Its origins trace back through centuries, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry and culinary mastery of Morocco. This vegetarian adaptation honors the traditional essence while catering to egg-free dietary preferences. Ready your palate for a taste of history as we embark on this cooking adventure.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this vegetarian Moroccan tagine, gather one large onion, two garlic cloves, and one cup of overnight-soaked chickpeas. You will also need two large carrots, one zucchini, and one bell pepper. Include three tomatoes, half a cup of raisins, a teaspoon each of cumin and cinnamon for flavor, salt to taste, and two tablespoons of olive oil for cooking.
Prepare your vegetables
Begin by finely chopping one large onion and mincing two garlic cloves. Peel and slice two large carrots into half-inch rounds. Cut one zucchini into similar-sized slices for consistent cooking. Core and chop one bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Lastly, either dice three tomatoes or use canned ones to maintain convenience without sacrificing flavor in your tagine preparation.
Spice it up
Warm two tablespoons of olive oil in a tagine or heavy pot over medium heat. Saute the chopped onion and minced garlic until they soften, avoiding browning. Add a teaspoon each of cumin and cinnamon, stirring for about one minute or until fragrant. Then, place the sliced carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and soaked chickpeas into the pot, combining them with the spices.
Simmer and serve
Pour in water to just cover the vegetables. Heat until boiling, then lower the flame for a gentle simmer. If a tagine lid is unavailable, a tight seal with foil or a regular lid will suffice. Cook for approximately one hour, or until the vegetables reach a tender state, ensuring they retain some bite and do not turn to mush.
Final touches
Once the vegetables are tender, season with salt to your liking and incorporate half a cup of raisins for a classic Moroccan sweet-and-savory flavor profile. Let the tagine simmer for an extra 10 minutes, allowing the diverse tastes to integrate fully. Serve this aromatic dish warm, paired with fluffy couscous or fresh bread to complete the experience.
