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Middle Eastern Spiced Lamb Tagine with Apricot-Almond Couscous

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Experience the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this spiced lamb tagine served alongside apricot-almond couscous. Tender lamb simmers in a fragrant medley of spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and exotic. This vibrant recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 1 large sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp ras el hanout
  • 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 1 cup fine couscous (or whole wheat)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping onions and garlic; set spices aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add lamb cubes; brown on all sides (8-10 minutes).
  4. Stir in garlic, ras el hanout, cumin, coriander, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest; cook for one minute until aromatic.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth, scraping the pot to release flavorful bits; bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add chopped apricots and cover; let simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours until lamb is fork-tender.
  7. Prepare couscous according to package instructions using leftover broth; mix in slivered almonds after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or swapping lamb for chicken or hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian option. Allow the tagine to rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Find it online: https://timeforkitchen.com/irresistible-middle-eastern-spiced-lamb-tagine-recipe/