Vegetable Tagine

Vegetable Tagine is a vibrant, slow-simmered Moroccan stew made with a medley of vegetables, fragrant spices, and often dried fruits like apricots or raisins. Traditionally cooked in a tagine pot, this dish is rich in flavor, naturally vegan, and perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. With its blend of warm spices and tender veggies, it’s a comforting meal that nourishes the body and delights the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable tagine is more than just a stew—it’s a flavor journey. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Aromatic and deeply spiced without being too hot
• Nutritious, plant-based, and gluten-free
• Easy to adapt with your favorite seasonal vegetables
• Great for meal prep and even better the next day
• A beautiful one-pot meal that’s perfect for sharing

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, peeled and sliced
• Sweet potatoes or white potatoes, cubed
• Zucchini, sliced
• Bell pepper, chopped
• Chickpeas (canned or cooked)
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Vegetable broth or water
• Dried apricots or raisins
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground turmeric
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Cooked couscous, quinoa, or flatbread (for serving)

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Add carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, dried fruit, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges and your choice of couscous, quinoa, or flatbread.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Include tofu, tempeh, or paneer for a protein boost.
• Spicy version: Add harissa paste or chili flakes for heat.
• Root veggie mix: Use parsnips, turnips, or squash in place of potatoes.
• Fruit swap: Try prunes, figs, or dates instead of apricots.
• Nutty garnish: Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pine nuts for texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave individual portions until hot.
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

FAQs

What is a tagine?

A tagine is both the name of the dish and the traditional North African clay pot with a cone-shaped lid used to cook it.

Can I make this without a tagine pot?

Yes, a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot works perfectly to mimic the slow-cooking environment of a tagine.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s full of warm spices but not spicy-hot. Add chili if you want extra heat.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, canned chickpeas are convenient and work great. Just rinse and drain them first.

What vegetables work best in tagine?

Sturdy vegetables like carrots, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and squash hold up well to slow cooking.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely. Chicken or lamb can be added, though the cooking time may need to be extended.

What should I serve with vegetable tagine?

Serve it with couscous, quinoa, bulgur, or warm flatbread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes. Vegetable tagine freezes well—just cool completely and store in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Do I need to peel the vegetables?

It’s up to you. For heartier texture, keep the peels on if they’re clean and tender.

What makes this dish taste so unique?

The combination of warming spices, sweet dried fruit, and savory vegetables creates a beautiful, balanced flavor typical of Moroccan cuisine.

Conclusion

Vegetable Tagine is a nourishing, spice-infused stew that brings the warmth and richness of Moroccan cooking to your kitchen. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal, its bold flavors and colorful presentation make it a standout dish. Easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and deeply satisfying—this tagine is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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