The Secret to a Flavorful and Healthy Lamb and Fig Tagine with Crispy Baked Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Lamb and Fig Tagine Recipe?

Looking for a healthy yet indulgent dish that brings a rich combination of flavors? This Lamb and Fig Tagine is the perfect choice! Infused with aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection, this dish blends tender lamb, sweet figs, and vibrant vegetables, all served alongside crispy oven-baked potatoes for a satisfying crunch.

Health Benefits of This Dish

✔ Lamb: High in protein, iron, and essential vitamins. ✔ Figs: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. ✔ Vegetables: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. ✔ Crispy Baked Potatoes: A healthier alternative to fried potatoes with less oil and more crunch.

Ingredients for Lamb and Fig Tagine

For the Tagine:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 cup dried figs, halved
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup almonds, toasted
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Vegetables:

• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cumin

The Crispy Baked Potatoes:

• 2 large potatoes, sliced into wedges
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Lamb and Fig Tagine

1. Heat olive oil in a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add the lamb chunks and sear on all sides until browned.
4. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, and turmeric, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
5. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and honey, then bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Cover and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat until the lamb becomes tender.
7. Add dried figs and toasted almonds in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

2. Roast the Vegetables

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans with olive oil, salt, and cumin.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

3. Bake the Crispy Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Lamb and Fig Tagine on a bed of roasted vegetables.
• Add a side of crispy baked potatoes for the perfect crunch.
• Pair with couscous or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Internal & External Links

For more healthy recipes, check out our guide on nutritious meal planning: [Internal Link] According to Harvard Health, a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables and lean proteins supports heart health: [External Link]

Enjoyed this recipe? Try it at home and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Share it with your friends who love Moroccan cuisine!