Slow-Cooked Lamb Tagine Recipe with Dates and Almonds

Slow-Cooked Lamb Tagine Recipe with Dates and Almonds

This Slow-Cooked Lamb Tagine with Dates and Almonds is a culinary journey to North Africa, where spices mingle with sweet and savory flavors. The tender lamb, slow-cooked to perfection, absorbs the rich blend of spices, creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds. The addition of dates adds a natural sweetness, while almonds provide a delightful crunch, making this tagine a memorable experience.

Imagine coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of a slow-cooked lamb tagine wafting through your kitchen. This dish not only fills your home with comforting scents but also brings friends and family together around the dinner table. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe highlights the beauty of communal dining, where sharing a delicious meal fosters connections and conversations.

Tagines are traditionally cooked in a conical clay pot, but you can easily make this dish in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that’s perfect for spooning over fluffy couscous or crusty bread. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Slow-Cooked Lamb Tagine with Dates and Almonds will impress and delight everyone!

Ingredient List

– 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken or beef broth
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
– Cooked couscous or bread, for serving

Instructions to Make the Recipe

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chunks in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Remove the lamb from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, stirring continuously.

4. Return the browned lamb to the skillet, then add the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.

5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add the chopped dates and season with salt and pepper. If using a slow cooker, set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. If using a Dutch oven, cover and cook in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 2.5 to 3 hours.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the tagine and mix gently. This allows the almonds to warm up and infuse their flavor into the dish.

7. Once the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the tagine hot over fluffy couscous or alongside crusty bread.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this Slow-Cooked Lamb Tagine with Dates and Almonds with your loved ones!