Name: Moroccan Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 kg beef chuck or stewing beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion; 3 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon; 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 400 g can of chopped tomatoes; 500 ml beef stock; 2 large carrots; 100 g pitted prunes; 50 g dried apricots; 1 preserved lemon; 1 tbsp honey; 1 small handful fresh coriander; Salt and black pepper

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Why Make This Recipe

Moroccan Beef Stew, also known as Beef Tagine, is a flavorful dish that offers a unique blend of spices and sweet elements. This recipe is excellent for a hearty family meal and will keep everyone satisfied. The combination of beef, vegetables, and dried fruits creates a rich taste and amazing aroma, making it perfect for any occasion. For more ideas, you can find a delicious beef and broccoli lo mein recipe that’s equally delightful.

How to Make Moroccan Beef Stew

Ingredients

1 kg beef chuck or stewing beef
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion
3 garlic cloves
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp sweet paprika
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
400 g can of chopped tomatoes
500 ml beef stock
2 large carrots
100 g pitted prunes
50 g dried apricots
1 preserved lemon
1 tbsp honey
1 small handful fresh coriander
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Pat the beef cubes dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
Add the cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir for about 60 seconds to bloom the spices until fragrant.
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and beef stock, scraping up the browned bits to deglaze the pot. Return the seared beef (and juices) to the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, maintaining a very gentle bubble.
Stir in the chunked carrots, prunes, dried apricots, preserved lemon, and honey. Cover and cook for another 45-60 minutes until the beef is fork-tender and the carrots are just tender.
Uncover and, if needed, simmer for 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Stir through most of the chopped fresh coriander, reserving some for garnish. Serve hot.

How to Serve Moroccan Beef Stew

You can serve Moroccan Beef Stew over a bed of fluffy couscous or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnishing with fresh coriander adds a nice touch.

How to Store Moroccan Beef Stew

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. If you want to freeze the stew, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 3 months.

Tips to Make Moroccan Beef Stew

Brown the beef well to create depth of flavor in the stew.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes.
If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer longer without the lid.

Variation

You can substitute the beef with lamb or chicken for a different taste. Adjust the spices accordingly to match the meat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh lemon instead of preserved lemon?
A: Yes, but preserved lemon adds a unique flavor, so use fresh lemon sparingly.

Q: How spicy will this stew be?
A: The heat level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of cayenne pepper used.

Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can brown the beef on the stovetop and then transfer everything to a slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

This Moroccan Beef Stew is not only a comforting dish but also encourages creativity in the kitchen. If you’re looking for more diverse flavors, check out this delicious Beef Tagine recipe. Enjoy your culinary journey!