Chicken Tajine

Chicken Tajine Recipe - Democratic Republic of Congo

Region / culture: Democratic Republic of Congo | Preparation time: 2-4 hours | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Chicken Tajine is a traditional Moroccan dish that is known for its rich and flavorful taste. This dish is made with tender chicken pieces, aromatic spices, and tangy preserved lemons, all cooked together in a clay pot called a tajine. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and comforting meal.

History

The tajine cooking method has been used in North Africa for centuries. The word "tajine" refers to both the clay pot used for cooking and the dish that is cooked in it. This method of cooking allows for the ingredients to simmer slowly, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. Chicken Tajine is a popular variation of this cooking method, combining chicken with a variety of spices and other ingredients.

Ingredients

2-4 cloves of garlic, minced
3-4 tbsp of olive oil for pan-frying chicken and mixing marinade
1-2 chickens (or chicken breasts), cut into serving-sized pieces
0.25 tsp of black pepper
0.25 tsp of ground ginger
A pinch of saffron
1 tsp of cumin (optional)
1 tsp of turmeric (optional)
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp of coriander (optional)
2 onions, finely chopped
2 cups of chicken broth or stock
1 cup of green olives
2 preserved lemons, cut into slices (see below)
salt, to taste

How to prepare

Mix the minced garlic with a pinch of black pepper and a spoonful of oil. Rub the chicken with the mixture and set it aside for a few hours or overnight.
Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven and fry the chicken until all sides begin to brown. Add the spices - black pepper, ginger, and saffron to the chicken. Add onions and stir-fry over high heat for a few minutes.
Add chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30–45 minutes.
Add preserved lemons. Add salt and adjust the seasoning. Continue to simmer. Remove the chicken, cover, and set it aside. Heat the sauce to a boil, stirring continuously, until thickened.
Serve the chicken, covered with the sauce, over boiled rice.

Variations

Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Substitute chicken with lamb or beef for a different twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken in the garlic mixture for at least a few hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Browning the chicken before adding the spices and onions helps to seal in the juices and adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt and spices.

- Be sure to simmer the dish over low heat to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Tajine over a bed of couscous or rice, with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the dish in a tajine or Dutch oven allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find preserved lemons, you can substitute with fresh lemon zest and juice for a similar tangy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Tajine in the clay pot it was cooked in for an authentic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of Moroccan mint tea or a crisp white wine for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and chicken, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Chicken Tajine is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a rich blend of spices, tender chicken, and tangy preserved lemons, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the exotic flavors of Morocco with this delicious Chicken Tajine recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a cold winter day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that my dear friend had given me as a gift. As I flipped through the pages, a picture of a steaming hot chicken tajine caught my eye. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the aromatic spices made my mouth water instantly.

I had never made a tajine before, but I was determined to try. The recipe seemed daunting at first, with its long list of ingredients and intricate steps. But I was not one to back down from a challenge when it came to cooking. I rolled up my sleeves and got to work.

The first thing I did was marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and a blend of Moroccan spices. I let it sit for a few hours to absorb all the flavors. Meanwhile, I chopped up an array of vegetables – carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes – to add to the tajine later.

Once the chicken was ready, I heated up some olive oil in a large earthenware pot. I carefully placed the chicken pieces in the pot and let them brown on all sides. The sizzle of the meat and the aroma of the spices filled my kitchen with a tantalizing fragrance.

Next, I added the vegetables to the pot, along with some preserved lemons and green olives. I poured in some chicken broth and covered the tajine with a lid to let it simmer slowly. I could hardly wait for the dish to be ready.

As the tajine cooked, I prepared the final touch – a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro and a handful of toasted almonds. The colors and textures of the dish were coming together beautifully, just like in the picture that had inspired me.

Finally, after hours of anticipation, the tajine was ready. I lifted the lid of the pot and was greeted by a cloud of fragrant steam. The chicken was tender and juicy, the vegetables were soft and flavorful, and the sauce was rich and savory.

I served the tajine with a side of fluffy couscous and a dollop of creamy yogurt. As I took the first bite, I closed my eyes and savored the explosion of flavors in my mouth. It was a taste sensation like no other – sweet, tangy, spicy, and aromatic all at once.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. It was a dish that brought warmth and comfort to my home, a dish that spoke of tradition and history, a dish that connected me to a culture and a people far away.

Over the years, I have made the chicken tajine countless times, each time adding my own twist and interpretation to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its complexity and depth of flavor.

But no matter how many times I make it, the tajine always transports me back to that cold winter day when I first discovered it in that old cookbook. It reminds me of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me, of the stories and memories that food can evoke.

And so, as I sit here now, writing down this recipe for future generations to enjoy, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful flavors and experiences that life has to offer. And I can't help but smile, knowing that this humble chicken tajine has brought so much joy and connection into my life.