When I think of a comforting meal bursting with flavor, ground beef tagine always comes to mind. It combines rich spices and sweet fruits, creating a unique dish that warms the heart. You only need ground beef, onion, carrot, garlic, ginger, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne pepper, tomato paste, beef broth, dates, dried apricots, raisins, olives, preserved lemon, honey, harissa, saffron, almonds, and fresh herbs to make this delightful recipe.
This dish features a wonderful blend of savory and sweet components making every bite memorable. The fragrant spices infuse the beef with irresistible flavor, while dried fruits add a sweetness that perfectly balances the dish. If you’re ready to explore the world of Moroccan cuisine, ground beef tagine is a fantastic place to start.
What Is Beef Tagine?
Beef tagine is a North African dish, rich in flavor and history. It features tender pieces of beef slow-cooked with various spices, fruits, and vegetables.
The dish derives its name from the cooking vessel, a tagine, consisting of a shallow, circular base and a conical lid. This design promotes even cooking and moisture retention.
I love how versatile this dish is. You can adjust the ingredients based on personal preference or seasonal availability.
Beef tagine is typically served with couscous or bread, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1/2 cup of diced onion
- 1/2 cup of diced carrot
- 1 tbsp of minced garlic
- 1 tbsp of minced ginger
- 2 tsp of paprika
- 1 tsp of ground turmeric
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of ground coriander
- 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp of ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp of tomato paste
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 8 seeded and chopped dates
- 8 coarsely chopped dried apricots
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup of sliced olives
- 1/4 of a preserved lemon, and peel rinsed and chopped, pith removed
- 1 tbsp of honey
- 1 tbsp of harissa
- 1 pinch of saffron
- 1/4 cup of slivered and toasted almonds
- 1 tbsp of chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 tbsp of chopped parsley (optional)
How to make ground beef tagine?
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Begin by browning the ground beef in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. As the beef cooks, incorporate chopped onions and carrots, ensuring the beef is broken apart for even cooking. Once browned, remove any excess grease.
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Introduce minced garlic, grated ginger, and a medley of spices, including paprika, coriander, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cayenne. A touch of tomato paste is also added. Sauté these ingredients for approximately one minute, allowing their aromatic essence to bloom.
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Introduce broth to the saucepan, followed by a selection of chopped dates, raisins, apricots, olives, honey, preserved lemon, saffron, and harissa. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes, facilitating the melding of flavors.
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Once the tagine is ready, it’s time for the final touches. Garnish the dish with toasted almonds, fresh cilantro, and parsley.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 512 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 68g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 448mg |
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments and Sides
Pairing ground beef tagine with the right side dishes elevates the meal’s flavors. I often serve it with couscous, as its light texture soaks up the sauce beautifully. You can also consider bulgur wheat or quinoa for a hearty alternative.
Vegetables are essential. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp salad made with cucumbers and tomatoes can balance the dish. For a touch of delight, I sometimes add a side of hummus or tzatziki for dipping.
Don’t forget pita bread or flatbread for scooping. This tactile experience adds enjoyment to each bite. Consider using the bread as a vehicle to savor the tagine sauce.
Presentation Tips
A visually appealing presentation enhances the dining experience. For an authentic feel, I like to serve ground beef tagine in a traditional tagine pot. If you don’t have one, any medium-sized bowl works fine.
For an attractive arrangement, layer the plate with couscous or another grain, then top with the tagine. I sprinkle fresh parsley or coriander over the dish for a vibrant splash of color. Adding lemon wedges on the side not only brightens the plate but provides a zesty kick.
Using colorful dishes can also elevate the look of your meal. Personalize the arrangement to create a feast for the eyes that pairs beautifully with the delightful flavors of ground beef tagine.
Tips for Perfect Tagine
Controlling Moisture Level
To maintain the ideal moisture level in your tagine, I recommend using a combination of fresh ingredients and spices. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil to create a rich base.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. These ingredients naturally release moisture during cooking. If your tagine seems too dry, adding a splash of broth or water helps balance the moisture.
When simmering, keep the lid on. This ensures steam circulates, enhancing flavor and preventing ingredients from drying out. Always taste and adjust accordingly.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For a perfect texture, I brown the beef properly before adding other ingredients. This step creates a flavorful crust and locks in juices.
Next, I break up the meat into small chunks, which allows even cooking. Cooking on low heat is crucial. It ensures the beef remains tender without becoming tough.
Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks uniformly. Toward the end, add dried fruits like apricots or raisins to introduce a pleasant contrast and tenderness.
Storage and Reheating
Storing your tagine correctly preserves its flavor and texture. I usually let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigeration works best, keeping it fresh for up to three days.
When reheating, do so gently. I recommend using a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. Microwaving is an option but may lead to uneven heating.
Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley revitalizes the dish just before serving.
Conclusion
Ground beef tagine is a delightful dish that combines bold flavors and comforting textures. Cooking allows for creativity, as you can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.
I love how this dish can easily adapt to different dietary preferences. Whether you want to include more vegetables or try alternative meats, it works beautifully.
Tagine cooking brings a unique experience to the kitchen. The slow-cooking method enhances the flavors, making each bite worth savoring. I find it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Think you need dessert? Try this kunafa with phyllo pastry recipe and you won’t regret it.
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