Tajine (or tagine) is both an emblematic dish of maghrebian cuisine (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia) and the name of the traditional container used for its cooking. |
The **tajine** (or **tagine**) is both an emblematic dish of the maghreb cuisine (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia) and the name of the traditional container used for its cooking.
1. The container (kitchen utensil)
- ** material ** :
- ** terracotta ** (traditional) : excellent heat retention and slow cooking.
- ** enamelled ceramic ** : more modern, often coloured.
- ** stainless tajine ** : robustness and homogeneous heat distribution.
- ** form ** :
- ** flat and wide Base ** to contain food.
- ** earth cone covering ** that allows steam to circulate and condense, keeping dishes tender and fragrant.
2. The dish (recipe
It is a preparation simmered over low heat, usually composed of:
- ** meat ** (lamb, chicken, beef) or ** fish **
- ** vegetables ** (Onions, carrots, zucchini, candied lemons, olives, etc.).
- ** spices ** (cumin, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, saffron, ras el hanout).
- ** dried Fruits ** (almonds, prunes, apricots).
Types of famous tagines
- ** lamb Tajine with prunes ** (Morocco).
- **Tajine kefta (meatballs) with eggs **.
- ** fish tagine with candied lemons **.
- ** vegetarian tagine ** (with vegetables and chickpeas).
advantages of cooking with tagine
slow and tasty cooking.
energy saving (low heat).
preservation of nutrients through steam.
Tips for use
- ** avoid thermal shocks ** (do not go from fridge to oven).
- ** pre-soak the tajine in earth ** (to avoid cracks).
- ** use a heat diffuser ** on an electric plate.
