Moroccan Qouq Tagine Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a tagine or a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ginger, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and chili powder (if using). Mix well to coat the vegetables.
5. Add the potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers to the pot. Stir to combine with the spices and tomatoes.
6. Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to release their juices.
7. Add the sliced zucchini and cooked chickpeas (if using) to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate them into the mixture.
8. Cover the pot again and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Garnish the tagine with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.
11. Serve the Qouq Tagine hot with crusty bread or Moroccan flatbread.