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Butternut Squash and Broad Bean Tagine Recipe:
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
2 tbsp ras-el-hanout
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp chilli powder or cayenne (optional, for a kick)
½ tsp ground ginger
Pinch of saffron
4 tbsp lemon juice
1 large butternut squash, peeled, de-seeded, and cut into 2cm cubes
300g frozen broad beans
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 small onions, peeled and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
500ml hot vegetable stock (ideally made from bouillon powder)
1 tbsp honey
Mix the spices: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ras-el-hanout, ground cinnamon, chilli powder (if using), ground ginger, saffron, and half the lemon juice. Stir to create a fragrant paste.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Gently cook the chopped onions and crushed garlic until soft and translucent, but not browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the squash: Add the butternut squash cubes, hot vegetable stock, and the remaining lemon juice to the pan. Stir well and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender but still holds its shape.
Add the broad beans: Stir in the frozen broad beans and bring the mixture back to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the beans to soften and the flavors to meld.
Finish with honey: Stir in the honey and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tagine piping hot over fluffy couscous. Elevate the dish with a spicy dollop of harissa, a handful of fresh dates, a sprinkle of flaked almonds, and some chopped coriander for a burst of freshness. The combination of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors makes every bite a delight.
Why You'll Love It
This tagine is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare yet feels special. The initial spice-mixing stage is a sensory joy, filling your kitchen with warm, exotic aromas. It’s also highly customizable—play with the spice ratios to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild or fiery. Perfect for chilly nights, this dish is a hearty, healthy option that pairs beautifully with bold sides like harissa. If you’re hosting, it’s a fantastic alternative to curry and never fails to spark conversation at the table.
Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe, and let me know how it turns out! If you’d like tips on sourcing the best ras-el-hanout or want to explore more North African-inspired dishes, I can search for ideas or analyze trends—just say the word!
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