Authentic Moroccan Beef Tagine with Prunes: A Perfect Sweet & Savory Dish

​This Beef Tagine with Prunes is a classic Moroccan dish, balancing savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. The slow-cooked beef becomes tender and absorbs the rich blend of warm spices, honey, and prunes.

Ingredients: (Serves 4-6)

For the Meat:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck, shank, or short ribs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground coriander (optional)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cups beef broth or water

For the Prune Sauce:

• 1 cup prunes, pitted
• 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup water

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup blanched almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics & Beef

• Heat olive oil in a tagine or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
• Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft and golden.
• Add the beef and brown it on all sides for 5-7 minutes.

2. Spice it Up & Simmer

• Stir in salt, pepper, ginger, turmeric, paprika, coriander, and cinnamon stick.
• Pour in the beef broth (or water) until the meat is just covered.
• Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

3. Prepare the Prune Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine prunes, honey, cinnamon, and water.
• Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until prunes are soft and caramelized.

4. Combine & Garnish

• Add the prune sauce to the beef and gently mix. Let it simmer for 10 more minutes.
• Garnish with toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and fresh parsley or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions:🍚 Serve with steamed couscous, warm crusty bread, or saffron rice.
🫖 Pair with mint tea for a true Moroccan experience!
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Enjoy your Moroccan Beef Tagine with Prunes! 🍽✨