This Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots is not only a delight for the senses but also a stress-free meal perfect for any occasion. The tender lamb combined with sweet apricots and aromatic spices creates a dish that feels both comforting and exotic. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe showcases the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine while requiring minimal effort in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just marinate, assemble, and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and apricots creates a unique taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect over couscous or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein from the lamb and fiber from chickpeas and apricots.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and almonds, it looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking by simmering flavors slowly until tender.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and marinating meat effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meat.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, keeping your workspace organized.

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Ingredients

This Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots combines various ingredients to create a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Lamb

• 2 lbs (900g) lamb shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced

For the Vegetables

• 3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

For the Sweetness

• 1 cup (150g) dried apricots

For Flavoring

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ras el hanout spice mix
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp tomato paste

For Cooking Liquid

• 2 cups (500ml) lamb or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To Finish

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Toasted almonds, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste

In a bowl, mix the ras el hanout, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper with the olive oil to form a paste.

Step 2: Marinate the Lamb

Coat the lamb pieces with this spice paste. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator to enhance flavors.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the marinated lamb on top of the onions.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Fruits

Add in the carrots, chickpeas, and dried apricots evenly over the lamb.

Step 5: Prepare Cooking Liquid

Mix tomato paste with broth in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over all ingredients in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Cook Slowly

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours until the lamb is tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your tagine before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and toasted almonds before serving. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

Serving your Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots can elevate the dining experience. The rich flavors of the tagine pair wonderfully with various sides and garnishes.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Toasted Almonds: Add a delightful crunch with toasted almonds, enhancing the dish’s texture.

Accompanying Dishes

• Couscous: Serve with fluffy couscous to soak up the delicious sauce and add a nutty flavor.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can complement the spices in the tagine beautifully.
• Flatbread: Warm flatbread is perfect for scooping up the tagine, making it interactive and fun to eat.

Beverage Pairings

• Mint Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet mint tea can enhance the Moroccan theme and cleanse the palate.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

For an even more delicious Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold marination: Marinate lamb overnight for deeper flavor absorption from spices.
• Quality ingredients: Use fresh spices and high-quality lamb for optimal taste and tenderness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Layering technique: Layer ingredients strategically in the slow cooker, starting with onions and then adding meat and vegetables on top to ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

Complement your Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots by serving it alongside these delicious side dishes.

1. Fluffy Couscous: This light grain absorbs flavors well and pairs perfectly with the tagine’s sauce.
2. Herbed Quinoa: A nutritious alternative that adds protein; mix cooked quinoa with herbs like parsley and mint.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring additional sweetness to your meal.
4. Garlic Naan Bread: Soft naan bread is ideal for dipping into the tagine sauce while adding an extra layer of flavor.
5. Minted Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce made with fresh mint provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the tagine.
6. Spiced Chickpea Salad: A salad made from chickpeas, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in lemon dressing adds freshness and crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Boldly skip marinating: Not allowing the lamb to marinate in the spice paste can lead to less flavorful meat. Aim for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, for better results.
• Boldly overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the ingredients.
• Boldly neglecting seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning can result in a bland dish. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Boldly ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too short or too long can affect texture. Stick to the recommended 7-8 hours on low for optimal tenderness.
• Boldly omitting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or nuts may leave your tagine lacking in texture and flavor. Always finish with cilantro or parsley and optional almonds for added depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months to maintain flavor and texture.

Reheating Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing this delicious dish.

Can I use other meats in Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots?

Yes! You can substitute lamb with beef or chicken if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on your meat choice.

What is ras el hanout?

Ras el hanout is a traditional Moroccan spice blend that typically includes various spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. It adds depth to the tagine’s flavor profile.

How do I know when the lamb is done?

The lamb should be tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork, which usually takes 7-8 hours on low in the slow cooker.

Can I add vegetables to my Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots?

This dish pairs well with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots is not only a flavorful dish but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots, a delightful dish that marries tender lamb with sweet apricots and a medley of spices. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for family gatherings or an intimate dinner party, offering an exotic experience without the hassle. Simply marinate your ingredients, layer them in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen while you enjoy your time with loved ones. The result is a hearty meal that’s both comforting and full of rich, complex flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup (150g) dried apricots
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ras el hanout spice mix
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups (500ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Toasted almonds, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ras el hanout, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and olive oil to form a paste.
2. Coat the lamb pieces with the spice paste and marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator.
3. Layer sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker followed by marinated lamb.
4. Add carrots, chickpeas, and dried apricots on top of the lamb.
5. Mix tomato paste with broth separately and pour over all ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours until lamb is tender.
7. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and toasted almonds before enjoying.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Moroccan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the lamb overnight. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.