Delightfully Spiced Moroccan Ground Beef and Date Tagine

This traditional Moroccan dish brings together the rich, aromatic flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of dates. The tagine, a North African slow-cooked stew braised at low temperatures, allows the spices to develop a deep, complex taste. Served over a bed of fluffy couscous or with warm, crusty bread, this dish is a feast for the senses.

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef
• 12 dates, pitted and halved
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent and start to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and carrots, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Stir in the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Mix in all the spices (cinnamon, cumin, ginger, turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the spices toast in the mixture for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the dates to the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the dates have softened and the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, steamed rice, or warm, crusty bread. For an added touch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or sesame seeds on top for extra texture.

Enjoy the rich, exotic flavors of this Moroccan Ground Beef and Date Tagine with your loved ones, and experience a true culinary journey.