Lamb Tagine with Prunes

Name: Lamb Tagine with Prunes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1.5 kg lamb shoulder (cut into large chunks); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 onions (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground turmeric; 1 cup prunes (pitted); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp lemon juice; salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup almonds (toasted); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

140 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

A traditional Moroccan-inspired dish, slow-cooked with tender lamb and sweet prunes for a flavourful meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

120 min

Total

140 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Lamb Tagine with Prunes is a classic dish that melds the rich flavours of tender lamb with the sweetness of prunes, creating a delightful balance that is both comforting and exotic. Originating from Morocco, this dish is known for its aromatic spices and slow-cooked tenderness. The tagine is named after the traditional earthenware pot in which it is cooked. This unique cookware helps in achieving the perfect texture and flavour by locking in moisture and allowing the ingredients to simmer gently over a long period.

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chunks and brown them on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; brown the lamb in batches if necessary.

Cook the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Add Spices

Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas.

Pro tip: Adding the spices early helps to enhance their flavours.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add the prunes, chicken broth, honey, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Ensure the lamb is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.

Simmer the Tagine

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.

Pro tip: Check the liquid level during cooking; add more broth if necessary.

Finish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with toasted almonds and chopped cilantro before serving.

Pro tip: Serve hot with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a heavy-bottomed pot or a traditional tagine for even cooking.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of prunes.
Brown the lamb well for a richer flavour.
Serve with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lamb tagine?

A lamb tagine is a slow-cooked stew made with lamb, spices, and often dried fruits, cooked in a traditional Moroccan tagine pot.

How do you make lamb tagine?

Lamb tagine is made by browning lamb, cooking onions and garlic, adding spices, and simmering with prunes and broth until tender.

What spices are used in lamb tagine?

Common spices include cinnamon, ginger, cumin, and turmeric.

What can I serve with lamb tagine?

Lamb tagine pairs well with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

How long does it take to cook lamb tagine?

It takes about 2 hours to cook lamb tagine, allowing the lamb to become tender.

Serving Suggestions

This Lamb Tagine with Prunes is best served with fluffy couscous or freshly baked bread to fully enjoy the rich sauce. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the tagine a day in advance and reheat it gently on the stove. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.