What is tajine? The new trendy food

Tajine, a culinary gem emanating from Morocco’s rich gastronomic tradition, has captivated palates around the world. This dish, which shares its name with the characteristic casserole in which it is cooked, is much more than a simple recipe; it is a sensory experience that fuses ingredients, techniques and flavours in a unique way. In this article, we will dive into the fascinating world of Tajín, exploring its origins, culinary uses and the properties that make it a delight for the senses.

Origins and meaning

The term ‘Tajine’ is derived from the conical lidded earthenware casserole in which this delicious Moroccan creation is cooked. This vessel, central to the preparation of Tajine, is believed to have historical roots dating back to the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century. Over the centuries, the Tajine has become a central element of Moroccan culture and cuisine, symbolising hospitality and conviviality around the table.

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Nutritional properties

In addition to its deliciousness, Tajine also offers significant nutritional benefits. The combination of lean meat, vegetables and fruits provides a balanced source of protein, vitamins and essential minerals. The spices used in the preparation of Tajine not only add flavour, but also antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making this culinary delight a healthy and delicious choice.

How to incorporate it into your food

Although Tajine is known for being the star of many Moroccan banquets, its versatility goes beyond being just a main dish. The Tajine casserole is used to prepare a variety of recipes, from stews and couscous to exquisite desserts. The combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices makes Tajine an ideal culinary option for experimenting with flavours and textures, exploring the endless possibilities of Moroccan cuisine. While authentic Tajine preparation may take time and dedication, incorporating some of its key elements into your everyday cooking can be easy and delicious. Experiment with Moroccan spice blends in your stews, add dried fruits to your meat dishes or use the slow cooking technique to enhance the flavours. Even if you don’t have the classic clay pot, you can achieve amazing results with conventional cooking utensils.

Recipe with tajine

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and cut into thin slices
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons Tajin (a mixture of chili powder, salt, and lime)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of Tajine with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture over the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavours.
2. Bring the chicken stock to the boil in a saucepan and then add the couscous. Remove from the heat, cover and leave to stand for 5 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork to obtain a fluffy texture.
3. Preheat a frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Allow to rest before cutting into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the couscous, roasted chicken, red pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives and fresh herbs (mint and coriander).
5. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with 1 teaspoon of Tajin. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
6. Serve the salad on individual plates and sprinkle lightly with more Tajine to enhance the flavour. Enjoy this delicious and healthy Tajine chicken salad with couscous and fresh herbs!

In conclusion, this food is more than just a recipe; it is a gastronomic experience that celebrates the richness of Moroccan cuisine. From its historical origins to the rich mix of ingredients and culinary techniques, Tajin captivates food lovers around the world. Dare to explore this culinary journey, discovering the magic found in every bite of this extraordinary dish. Immerse yourself in the charm of Tajine and allow its Moroccan essence to elevate your culinary experiences to new heights – enjoy!

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