This Vegetable Tagine with Argan Oil is a delicious and aromatic Moroccan dish, rich in flavor and nutrients. The addition of argan oil brings a unique, nutty flavor that enhances the vegetables, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing.
### Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons organic argan oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
### Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large tagine pot or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the carrots, zucchinis, eggplant, potatoes, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables in the oil and garlic.
3. Season the Tagine:
- Sprinkle the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.
- Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Tagine:
- Pour the vegetable broth or water over the seasoned vegetables.
- Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Allow the tagine to simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and have absorbed the flavors.
5. Add the Chickpeas and Argan Oil:
- About 10 minutes before the vegetables are done, stir in the chickpeas.
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked, drizzle the argan oil over the tagine and gently stir to combine. The argan oil will add a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
6. Serve:
- Garnish the vegetable tagine with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Serve the tagine hot, with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, tangy contrast.
7. Accompaniment:
- This vegetable tagine is traditionally served with couscous, but it also pairs well with crusty bread or rice.
### Tips:
- Argan Oil: Use only culinary-grade argan oil for this recipe to ensure the best flavor and quality.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like sweet potatoes, squash, or green beans based on what you have available.
Enjoy your Vegetable Tagine with Argan Oil, a healthy and flavorful Moroccan dish that’s perfect for any occasion!