One of my fondest memories is cooking alongside my grandmother, her hands weathered but her heart full of love and her stories were as rich as the tagines she used to make! She taught me the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. This Kefta Tagine with Fresh Mint recipe is inspired by her, a tribute to her warmth and culinary skill. It's a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and the joy of sharing a meal with family and friends. I remember one time.. I was maybe 8, and accidently put sugar instead of salt. Oh we laughed about that for years! It's funny the memories that food can evoke isn't it?
Kefta Tagine is a flavorful Moroccan stew featuring spiced meatballs (kefta) simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The addition of fresh mint elevates the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory spices. I know sometimes trying new things can be daunting, but trust me on this one, you'll be so happy you did! This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. I personally love how it's so versatile. You can serve it with couscous, rice, or even just some crusty bread. What does this mean for you? It means you get a delicious, easy-to-make meal that's sure to impress!
This tagine isn't just about the taste, it's about the experience. From the moment you start preparing the ingredients, the aroma of spices fills your kitchen, creating a sense of anticipation. As the tagine simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of tastes that will delight your senses. And when you finally take that first bite, you'll be transported to the vibrant souks of Marrakech! You can almost hear the sounds of bustling markets and smell the exotic fragrances of Morocco. Its really THAT good! Remember that time, it rained on your hike? Well, this is better than that any day.
Required Equipments
- Tagine or Dutch Oven
- Large Bowl
- Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
Kefta Tagine with Fresh Mint: Frequently Asked Questions
Kefta Tagine with Fresh Mint
Kefta Tagine with Fresh Mint is a delicious Moroccan stew featuring spiced meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, elevated with the refreshing touch of fresh mint. This tagine is easy to make and perfect for a cozy and flavorful meal.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prepare the Kefta: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, paprika, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be uniform in texture.
- Form the Kefta Balls: Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. Dont make em too big!
- Sauté the Kefta: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the kefta balls and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking in the tagine.
- Prepare the Tagine Base: In the tagine or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, paprika, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors. This step is crucial for a flavorful tagine.
- Combine Kefta and Sauce: Gently place the seared kefta balls into the tagine, nestling them among the vegetables. Add the chicken broth or water, ensuring the meatballs are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Tagine: Cover the tagine and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid doesn't evaporate completely; add more broth or water if necessary.
- Add Olives and Lemon Juice: Stir in the green olives and lemon juice. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The olives add a briny flavor, while the lemon juice brightens the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tagine from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh mint and cilantro. Serve hot with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Optional Additions: For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron threads to the tagine during the simmering process. A sprinkle of preserved lemon peel also adds a unique citrusy depth. A little bit of harissa paste can also be added for an extra kick of spice, if you’re feeling adventurous.
📝 Notes
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 5 g
Calcium: 80 mg
