Tajine
Tajine, also spelled tagine, is a dish made of slow-cooked meat and vegetables, typically served with couscous. It is named after the earthenware pot in which it is cooked.

Here is a simple recipe for making tajine, at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lamb or beef, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large tajine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they are softened.
- Add the lamb or beef to the tajine and brown it on all sides.
- Add the beef broth, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the tajine. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the tajine, covered, for 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender.
- Serve the tajine hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of paprika. Enjoy with couscous or bread.
You can also add additional ingredients to the tajine, such as olives, raisins, or chickpeas, to give it more flavor. Enjoy!
Tips for preparation of Tajine
Here is a simple recipe for making tajine, at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lamb or beef, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large tajine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they are softened.
- Add the lamb or beef to the tajine and brown it on all sides.
- Add the beef broth, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the tajine. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the tajine, covered, for 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender.
- Serve the tajine hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of paprika. Enjoy with couscous or bread.
You can also add additional ingredients to the tajine, such as olives, raisins, or chickpeas, to give it more flavor. Enjoy!
Tajine serving size
The serving size for tajine will depend on the specific dish it is being served with and the appetite of the individual. As a general guide, one serving of tajine could be considered one medium-sized portion, or about the size of a small plate.
However, it is important to note that the serving size of tajine may vary depending on the specific recipe and the role that it is playing in the meal. For example, if tajine is being served as a main course, a larger serving size may be appropriate. If it is being served as a side dish, a smaller serving size may be more appropriate.
It is also important to consider the overall balance of nutrients in your diet when determining the serving size of tajine and other high-fat, high-calorie foods. If you are trying to watch your intake of these nutrients, it may be helpful to be mindful of the serving size of tajine and other fatty dishes.
Tajine nutrition value
The nutrition value of tajine will depend on the specific recipe and ingredients used to make it. In general, tajine is a high-fat, high-calorie dish and may provide some protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Here is a rough estimate of the nutrition value of one serving (about 250 grams) of tajine made with lamb or beef, vegetables, and spices:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
It is important to note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Tajine may also contain additional nutrients if it is made with other ingredients, such as whole grains or legumes.
Tajine is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetables or legumes as the main ingredient instead of meat. However, it is important to note that some versions of tajine may contain ingredients that are not suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, such as nuts or dairy products. Always be sure to check the ingredient list before consuming any food, including tajine.