Hearty Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots and Almonds

The Moroccan Lamb Tagine is a rich and aromatic stew that combines tender chunks of lamb with sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and a blend of warm spices. This dish is traditionally slow-cooked in a tagine, a cone-shaped clay pot, which helps to lock in flavors and create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this tagine is best served over a bed of couscous or with warm, crusty bread.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved
– 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
– 1 tbsp honey
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Couscous or bread, for serving

Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb in batches, browning on all sides. Remove the lamb and set it aside.
2. Sauté the onions in the same pot until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper), and cook for about 1 minute to release their aromas.
4. Add the browned lamb back to the pot along with the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, until the lamb is tender.
5. Stir in the apricots, honey, and almonds, and let the tagine simmer for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
7. Serve the lamb tagine over a bed of couscous or with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots and Almonds!