Beef Tagine with Almonds: A Flavorful Journey
If you’re looking for a delicious meal that bursts with flavor, then Beef Tagine with Almonds is the perfect dish for you! This Moroccan recipe has deep roots in the country’s cuisine and brings a taste of North Africa right to your kitchen. Tagine, named after the special earthenware pot it’s cooked in, is known for its slow-cooked meat and rich sauce. The combination of spices, tender beef, and crunchy almonds makes it a favorite for many food lovers around the world.
Historically, tagine dishes have been made for centuries, often cooked over an open flame, bringing families together to share a meal. This dish is popular not only because of its amazing taste but also because it offers a wonderful way to experience Moroccan culture. It’s colorful, aromatic, and packed with health benefits, making it an appealing choice for both special occasions and weekday dinners.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Beef, cut into cubes (Chuck or Brisket) | 2 lbs |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | 1/2 tsp |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Almonds, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Chickpeas, canned and drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Dried apricots, chopped (optional) | 1/2 cup |
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic, and cut the beef into bite-sized cubes.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add the beef: Place the beef cubes in the pot, browning them on all sides for about 7-10 minutes.
- Spice it up: Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and season with salt and pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute.
- Mix in the liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and honey, stirring well.
- Add the chickpeas and dried apricots: Combine them into the mixture and bring to a slight boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Toast the almonds: In a separate pan, lightly toast the sliced almonds until golden brown. Set aside.
- Serve: Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with toasted almonds.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 28 g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g | 10% |
| Fats | 15 g | 23% |
| Fiber | 7 g | 28% |
| Sodium | 450 mg | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize your spices: Feel free to add more spices like paprika or cayenne for extra heat.
- Slow cooking: For best results, let the beef marinate with spices overnight before cooking.
- Serve with sides: Pair your tagine with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Don’t rush: Letting the dish simmer slowly helps develop richer flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Using chicken will make for a lighter dish, and it cooks faster. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly.
What kind of pot do I need?
A traditional tagine pot is best, but any heavy pot with a lid will work. Just make sure it can handle low heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with vegetables like zucchini and carrots, and add more chickpeas for protein.
What if I don’t have cumin?
If you don’t have cumin, you can use ground coriander or simply increase the amount of other spices.
Can I add other nuts?
Definitely! Walnuts or pistachios can be great alternatives or additions for extra crunch.
What can I serve with tagine?
Tagine is delicious served with couscous, rice, or even bread. Pairing it with a fresh salad also makes a complete meal.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spice is mild. You can adjust it by adding more cayenne pepper or chili powder if you prefer heat.
How long does it take to cook?
The cooking time is about 1.5 to 2 hours for the beef to become tender. Patience pays off!
Now that you have the recipe for Beef Tagine with Almonds, it’s time to bring the flavors of Morocco right to your dinner table! Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends.
