Authentic Moroccan Beef Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives – A Timeless Classic

try arabic food
18 Jun, 2025
Authentic Moroccan beef tagine cooked with preserved lemons, green olives, and aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Served in a traditional clay tagine pot with a rustic North African setting. Slow-cooked tender beef in a rich, flavorful sauce, garnished with cilantro and lemon wedges. A classic Moroccan dish perfect for family dinners, Ramadan, and festive occasions. Traditional Maghreb cuisine representing Moroccan culture and Mediterranean flavors.

Introduction to Moroccan Beef Tagine

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its rich spices and hearty stews, and the beef tagine with preserved lemon and olives is a standout. This dish is slow-cooked to perfection and brings out a balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

What is a Tagine?

The term “tagine” refers both to the clay pot used in Moroccan cooking and the stew itself. The unique shape of the pot allows moisture to circulate, creating tender meat and deeply infused flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef stew meat (chuck or brisket)
  • 2 preserved lemons, rinsed and sliced
  • 1 cup green olives (pitted)
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp each of ground ginger, turmeric, cumin, and paprika
  • ½ tsp cinnamon and black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup water or beef broth
  • ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley and cilantro

How to Prepare the Tagine

  1. Marinate the meat: Mix beef with spices, garlic, and olive oil. Let it sit for at least an hour or overnight.
  2. Brown the beef: Sear in a tagine or heavy pot until all sides are browned.
  3. Add onions: Cook until soft and translucent.
  4. Simmer: Add water or broth. Cover and cook on low for 1.5–2 hours.
  5. Add lemons and olives: Stir in and simmer for another 15–20 minutes.
  6. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • With warm Moroccan bread (Khobz)
  • Over fluffy couscous
  • With rice or steamed vegetables

Why This Dish is Special

It represents Moroccan hospitality and heritage. Each bite is filled with the comforting essence of home-cooked meals and the aromatic depth of North African spices.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in protein and iron
  • Anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, cumin, garlic)
  • Good fats from olives

Tips & Variations

  • Use lamb for a deeper flavor
  • Add dried fruits like prunes for sweetness
  • Top with toasted almonds for texture

Conclusion

This Moroccan beef tagine with preserved lemon and olives is more than a recipe—it’s a cultural experience. It’s perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or exploring new cuisines from your own kitchen.

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