Real Chicken Tajine with Candied Lemons and Olives
Ingredients:
For the Tajine:
- 1.5 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
- 2 preserved lemons (cut into quarters)
- 150 g green olives (rinsed and drained)
- 2 onions (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 small bunch fresh coriander
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 500 ml water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the onions and mince the garlic.
- Cut the preserved lemons into quarters and rinse the green olives to reduce their saltiness.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- In a large tajine dish or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add the ginger, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Tajine
- Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot.
- Add the preserved lemons, green olives, and the bunch of coriander.
- Pour in the water, cover, and let simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Discard the coriander bunch before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh coriander if desired.
- Pair with Moroccan bread or steamed couscous for an authentic experience.
Cooking Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Enjoy this authentic Moroccan Chicken Tajine, packed with rich flavors and the perfect balance of citrusy, savory, and spiced goodness!
