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Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon: Traditional Moroccan Recipe

How to Make a Perfect Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon at Home

Introduction:

Chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemon is an iconic dish in Moroccan cuisine, renowned for its rich flavors and irresistible aroma. This traditional dish is often prepared for special family occasions and celebrations, symbolizing Moroccan hospitality. Whether you are a Moroccan cuisine lover or simply want to try something new, this authentic recipe will guide you step by step to make a perfect tagine at home. Tagine is not only a dish, but also a cooking method that has been used for centuries in Moroccan gastronomy.

 

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

2 preserved lemons (a key ingredient in Moroccan cooking, adding a tangy touch)

150g pitted green olives (the olives provide a salty flavor that perfectly complements the preserved lemon)

2 medium onions, finely chopped (the onions add sweetness and depth of flavor)

3 cloves garlic, minced (garlic is a staple in most Moroccan dishes)

1 teaspoon turmeric (for color and a slight bitterness)

1 teaspoon ground ginger (the ginger provides a subtle heat)

1/2 teaspoon saffron (optional, but it gives a beautiful golden color and a unique aroma)

1/2 bunch fresh coriander, chopped (coriander is often used in Moroccan cooking for its freshness)

1/2 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (the parsley complements the coriander by providing a lightness)

1 cinnamon stick (cinnamon adds a sweet and spicy note, typical of tagines)

4 tablespoons olive oil (olive oil is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine)

Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Tagine :

Prepare the ingredients:

Start by marinating the chicken pieces with turmeric, ginger, saffron, garlic, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let sit for at least 1 hour so that the flavors infuse well into the meat.

In the meantime, rinse the preserved lemons to remove excess salt and cut them into quarters. The preserved lemons, an essential ingredient in this recipe, add a unique tangy and aromatic note.

Cooking the Tagine:

In a tagine or large casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. The onions provide a natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the preserved lemons.

Then add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step seals in the juices and gives the meat a nice golden color.

Add the preserved lemon wedges, cinnamon stick, chopped coriander, and parsley. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 40 to 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and infused with the flavors of the Moroccan spices.

Adding the Olives:

10 minutes before the end of cooking, add the green olives to the tagine. The olives, with their salty and umami taste, pair perfectly with the chicken and preserved lemons. Mix well and let the flavors blend.

Serving Tips :

Serve the Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon warm, accompanied by traditional Moroccan bread (khobz) or couscous for a complete meal. Moroccan bread is ideal for dipping into the delicious sauce of the tagine.

This dish is even better when prepared the day before, allowing the flavors to develop further. If you have leftovers, they will be even more delicious the next day.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon is not only a delicious dish but also an authentic culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Morocco. By following this traditional recipe, you can recreate the rich flavors and exotic aromas of Moroccan cuisine at home. Try this recipe at home and share it with your loved ones for a friendly and tasty moment. Don't forget to add a personal touch with your favorite spices or adapt the ingredients according to your tastes.