Introduction
North African cuisine is famous for its fragrant and flavorful dishes, and Moroccan chicken tagine is no exception. This tantalizing dish, cooked in a traditional earthenware pot called a tagine, combines tender chicken with an array of sweet and savory ingredients, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
To craft this delectable dish, you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup pitted prunes
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 preserved lemon, quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Steps
1. **Prepare the spices:** In a small bowl, combine the cumin, ginger, turmeric, and saffron (if using).
Season the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the spice mixture, olive oil, and salt to taste. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add the chicken: Brown the chicken pieces on both sides in the tagine.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the aromatics: Stir in the prunes, almonds, preserved lemon, and cilantro.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro and serve hot with couscous, rice, or flatbread.
Tips
– For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks.
– If you don’t have a preserved lemon, substitute with 1/4 cup lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
– Add a handful of dried apricots for a touch of sweetness.
– Serve with a side of harissa for an extra kick.
FAQ
**Q: What can I substitute for prunes?**
A: You can use dried apricots, raisins, or dates.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, it's not particularly spicy. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less cumin or ginger.
Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook this dish in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
