Description

Craving an exotic, aromatic dish that transports you to the vibrant markets of Morocco? Look no further than Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine! This rich and flavorful recipe features tender lamb shoulder simmered with sweet dried apricots, raisins, and a warm blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, all effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker. The combination of savory, sweet, and spiced elements creates a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Lamb Shoulder (2 lbs, cut into chunks): Rich and tender, perfect for slow cooking.
- Substitution: Beef chuck, chicken thighs, or eggplant for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time for eggplant).
Onion (1, chopped): Provides savory, sweet depth.
- Substitution: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitution: ¾ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz, undrained): Creates a tangy, juicy base.
- Substitution: Fresh diced tomatoes (1.5 cups) or crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1 cup): Adds depth and keeps the dish moist.
- Substitution: Water with a bouillon cube or low-sodium broth.
Dried Apricots (½ cup, chopped): Brings sweet, chewy bursts of flavor.
- Substitution: Dried figs, dates, or prunes.
Raisins (½ cup): Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Substitution: Dried cranberries, currants, or golden raisins.
Ground Cumin (2 tsp): Delivers earthy, warm spice.
- Substitution: Ground caraway or fennel seeds.
Ground Coriander (2 tsp): Adds citrusy, floral notes.
- Substitution: Ground cilantro or parsley seeds.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Provides warm, sweet depth.
- Substitution: Ground allspice or a pinch of nutmeg.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Fresh Cilantro (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Substitution: Fresh parsley, mint, or no garnish.
Cooked Couscous or Rice (for serving): Soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Substitution: Quinoa, flatbread, or cauliflower rice for low-carb.

Why They’re Important: The lamb is the rich, hearty base, dried fruits add a sweet contrast, and tomatoes and broth create a robust sauce. Spices deliver the iconic Moroccan flavor, while cilantro and couscous or rice complete the dish with freshness and comfort.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add 2 lbs lamb shoulder (cut into 1-inch chunks), 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 can (14 oz) undrained diced tomatoes, 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth, ½ cup chopped dried apricots, ½ cup raisins, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
Stir gently to combine, ensuring the lamb and ingredients are evenly coated with the tomatoes, broth, and spices.
- Tip: Trim excess fat from the lamb for a leaner dish, and chop apricots into small pieces for even distribution of sweetness.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Check at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; the lamb should be soft but not mushy, and the sauce should be thick and flavorful.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even flavor distribution, but avoid lifting the lid too often. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for the last 15-30 minutes to reduce.

Step 3: Serve

Stir the tagine to blend the flavors and check the consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
Serve hot over cooked couscous or rice, ensuring a mix of lamb, fruits, and sauce in each portion.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Tip: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to make a slurry, stir into the slow cooker, and cook on high for 10-15 minutes.