Beef Tagine Recipe – Authentic Moroccan Comfort Dish

Beef tagine recipe is a classic Moroccan dish known for its rich flavors, tender meat, and aromatic spices. Cooked slowly in a traditional tagine or heavy-bottomed pot, the beef absorbs the blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables, creating a savory and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want to experience the authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine at home.

This Beef Tagine recipe is simple to follow, even for beginners. With fresh ingredients and clear instructions, you can recreate this flavorful dish without stepping into a professional kitchen. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to prepare, season, and serve this Moroccan favorite.

How to Make Beef Tagine Recipe?

Making beef tagine involves slow cooking beef with a mixture of spices, vegetables, and dried fruits to create a tender, flavorful stew. First, beef chunks are browned to seal in the juices. Then, a combination of onions, garlic, spices, and broth is added to the pot. The dish is cooked slowly over low heat, allowing the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld together. Optional dried fruits, like apricots or raisins, add a sweet contrast to the savory spices.

Think of this process as guiding someone in your kitchen step by step, explaining how to layer flavors and cook slowly to achieve the perfect tagine.

Ingredients for this Recipe

• Beef chunks (stew meat) – 1 kg
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
• Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
• Ground ginger – 1 teaspoon
• Ground turmeric – 1 teaspoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – to taste
• Beef or vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Diced tomatoes – 1 cup
• Carrots – 2, sliced
• Potatoes – 2, chopped (optional)
• Dried apricots – ½ cup
• Raisins – ¼ cup
• Fresh cilantro or parsley – for garnish

Traditional Method to Prepare Moroccan Beef Tagine Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or tagine over medium heat. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides. This helps seal in the juices and adds flavor to the stew.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, paprika, black pepper, and salt over the beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with spices. This step is essential for the rich Moroccan flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Vegetables: Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add carrots, potatoes (if using), dried apricots, and raisins. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Slow Cook: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. The meat should become tender and the sauce thickens to a rich consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the tagine. Serve hot with couscous, rice, or flatbread.

Tips and Variations

• For extra richness, add a tablespoon of honey for subtle sweetness.
• Replace beef with lamb for a traditional Moroccan flavor.
• Add chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Adjust spices according to taste preference for mild or stronger flavor.
• Cook in a slow cooker for 6–8 hours on low heat if you don’t have a tagine.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 30g

Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.

Recipe Notes

• Brown the meat properly for better flavor.
• Keep the heat low during slow cooking to prevent burning.
• Adjust the liquid (broth) as needed to maintain a thick, stew-like consistency.
• Tagine is best served hot with fresh bread or couscous.

FAQs

Can I use a regular pot instead of a tagine?

Yes, any heavy-bottomed pot with a tight lid works perfectly for slow cooking beef tagine.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze beef tagine?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, naturally gluten-free. Serve with rice or gluten-free couscous if needed.

Conclusion

Beef tagine is a comforting, aromatic Moroccan dish that combines tender meat, vegetables, and a rich blend of spices. With this step-by-step guide, you can make this authentic beef tagine recipe at home, enjoying a flavorful meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. By following these instructions, you’ll create a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious, bringing a taste of Morocco into your kitchen.