Tagine T'Faia

Tagine T'Faia Recipe from Morocco with Chicken, Saffron, and Almonds

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tagine T'Faia is a traditional Moroccan dish that features tender chicken cooked in a flavorful sauce with a hint of saffron and ginger. This dish is often served with hard boiled eggs and blanched almonds for added texture and flavor.

History

Tagine T'Faia has been a staple in Moroccan cuisine for centuries. This dish is typically cooked in a tagine, a traditional North African clay pot with a conical lid. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic dish that is perfect for special occasions and gatherings.

Ingredients

1 roasting chicken, jointed
butter or oil
salt and black pepper
1 tsp ground ginger
0.25 tsp saffron
2 onions, finely chopped
3 tbsp finely chopped parsley
6 hard boiled eggs, shelled
4 oz (113 g) blanched almonds

How to prepare

In a large pan, combine the chicken with about 2 tbsp of butter or oil, salt, pepper, ginger, saffron, onions, and parsley.
Bring it to a boil for a couple of minutes before reducing the heat and simmering gently for one hour. When it is done, the chicken will be well cooked and the sauce will be reduced.
In a small pan, fry the almonds in a small amount of butter until they turn brown.
Transfer the chicken to a large dish and pour the sauce over it.
Arrange the eggs on top for garnish, along with the fried almonds.
This recipe serves 6.

Variations

You can add dried fruits such as apricots or prunes for a touch of sweetness.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa paste to the sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the chicken before adding it to the sauce to enhance the flavor.

- Adjust the amount of saffron and ginger to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water during the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tagine T'Faia with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

- A side of Moroccan salad or roasted vegetables would complement this dish nicely.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the chicken in a tagine allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts instead of a whole chicken.

- Cashews or pine nuts can be used in place of almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. - Serve the Tagine T'Faia in the tagine pot for an authentic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of Moroccan mint tea or a bold red wine such as a Syrah or Grenache.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

450 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

25g per serving

Proteins

35g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and eggs.

Summary

Tagine T'Faia is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tagine T'Faia is a delicious and aromatic Moroccan dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. With a rich and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and a hint of saffron and ginger, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Serve with couscous or crusty bread for a complete meal that will transport you to the streets of Marrakech. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tagine T'Faia. It was given to me by a dear friend during my travels in Morocco many years ago. The fragrant aroma of the spices and the succulent taste of the tender meat and fruits had me hooked from the first bite.

My friend, Fatima, was a gracious host who welcomed me into her home with open arms. She took me under her wing and taught me the art of Moroccan cooking. I spent many days in her kitchen, watching and learning as she effortlessly whipped up delicious dishes that were bursting with flavor.

One day, Fatima decided it was time for me to learn how to make Tagine T'Faia. She explained that this dish was a traditional Moroccan recipe that was typically made for special occasions and celebrations. It was a dish that brought people together and warmed the soul with its rich and complex flavors.

We started by gathering all the necessary ingredients - lamb, onions, honey, cinnamon, saffron, almonds, and dried apricots. Fatima patiently showed me how to prepare and marinate the meat, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors before cooking.

As the tagine simmered away on the stove, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma, Fatima shared stories of her childhood and the traditions that surrounded this dish. She told me how her mother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient with love and care.

I watched in awe as Fatima skillfully layered the ingredients in the tagine, creating a beautiful mosaic of colors and textures. The sweetness of the honey and dried apricots combined perfectly with the savory lamb and spices, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

After hours of slow cooking, the tagine was finally ready. Fatima lifted the lid, revealing a steaming pot of goodness that was sure to delight the senses. We sat down at the table, surrounded by family and friends, and dug into the fragrant stew with enthusiasm.

The first bite was like a taste of heaven - the tender meat melted in my mouth, the sweetness of the honey and apricots danced on my tongue, and the warm spices lingered on my palate. I closed my eyes and savored every bite, feeling grateful to have experienced such a culinary masterpiece.

As I finished my meal, Fatima smiled at me and said, "Now you know the secret to making Tagine T'Faia. Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe, it's about putting your heart and soul into every dish you make."

And with those words, I knew that I had found a new passion in life. I returned home with the recipe for Tagine T'Faia tucked safely in my pocket, ready to share the magic of Moroccan cooking with my loved ones. And every time I make this dish, I am transported back to that moment in Fatima's kitchen, surrounded by laughter, love, and the delicious scent of Tagine T'Faia.