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beef tagine recipe

raditional Beef Tagine (Beginner-Friendly)

A comforting and authentic Moroccan beef tagine made with simple ingredients and slow-cooked to tender perfection. This beginner-friendly recipe delivers deep flavor without complicated steps, making it perfect for home cooks new to Moroccan cuisine.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

2.2 lb (1 kg) beef chuck or shoulder, cut into medium chunks
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp turmeric
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1½ cups water or beef broth
Optional Add-ins
Prunes or dates
Toasted almonds
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Tagine pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Prepare the ingredients : Cut beef into medium-sized chunks. Finely chop onions and mince garlic. Measure spices in advance.
    Start the base : Heat olive oil in a tagine or heavy pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
      Add aromatics and beef : Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add beef and gently turn to coat with spices.
        Slow cook : Add water or broth until the meat is mostly covered. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1½–2 hours.
          Check and finish : Stir occasionally and add small amounts of liquid if needed. The beef should be very tender and the sauce thick.

            Notes

            • Use chuck or shoulder for best tenderness; lean cuts will dry out.
            • Keep the heat low and steady tagine cooking is never rushed.
            • Avoid adding too much liquid at once; the sauce should reduce naturally.
            • Flavor improves if the tagine rests for 10–15 minutes before serving.
            • Leftovers taste even better the next day.