As the autumn breeze begins to sweep through, there’s a comforting pull to warm up the kitchen and embrace flavors that reflect the season’s essence. One of my delightful discoveries has been this Hearty Vegan Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience of vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors that dance on your palate! The way tender potatoes mingle with briny olives and zesty preserved lemons creates a taste sensation that transports me straight to sun-kissed shores.
What’s even better? This tagine is incredibly simple to make, perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something hearty yet healthy. The addition of crispy chickpeas adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender texture of the dish. Whether you’re a dedicated chef or someone seeking to escape the monotony of fast food, this recipe promises not only nourishment but also a delicious adventure. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking—an aromatic feast awaits!
Why is this Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine special?
Hearty Comfort: This dish brings the warmth of autumn right to your table, making it the perfect cozy meal.
Vegan Delight: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for plant-based diets without compromising on flavor.
Simple Prep: With straightforward steps, it’s ideal for cooks of any skill level, ensuring success every time.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the vegetables or grains for a touch of creativity—each time, it feels unique!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The bold Mediterranean-inspired profile will satisfy friends and family, making it a hit for gatherings.
Elevate your cooking repertoire by experiencing the delightful jewel of Moroccan cuisine with this tagine!
Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine Ingredients
For the Base
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps in sautéing; can be substituted with avocado oil for a different flavor.
- Onions (2, finely sliced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; yellow or red onions work beautifully.
- Garlic (4 cloves, finely sliced) – Enhances aroma and flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
- Green Pepper (1, finely sliced) – Brings a fresh, mild sweetness; bell pepper or zucchini can be good substitutes.
- Cinnamon Stick (1) – Infuses warmth and depth; ground cinnamon can be used in a pinch for convenience.
- Ground Turmeric (1 tsp) – Adds earthiness and vibrant color to the dish, making it visually appealing.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Offers a warm, nutty flavor; an essential component in a traditional tagine.
- Ground Coriander (1 tsp) – Adds a delightful citrusy note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Chilli Powder (½ tsp) – Provides subtle heat; omit for a milder dish if preferred.
For the Liquid
- White Wine (100ml) – Enhances flavor depth; replace with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Vegetable Stock (400ml) – Forms the base for the sauce; opting for low-sodium is a great healthier choice.
For the Main Ingredients
- Green Olives (100g, with brine) – Provides saltiness and a tangy flavor, crucial for the tagine’s authenticity.
- Preserved Lemons (2, sliced into eighths) – Infuses citrusy brightness; lemon juice can be used if preserved lemons are unavailable.
- Waxy Potatoes (800g, sliced 1.5cm thick) – Hold their shape well during cooking; Charlotte or Anya potatoes work best.
- Bay Leaf (1; fresh preferred) – Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
For Finishing Touches
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; season to taste as you go along.
- Fresh Coriander (3 tbsp, chopped + extra for garnish) – Introduces freshness and can be substituted with parsley if desired.
- Crispy Chickpeas (from 400g can, drained) – Adds delightful texture; roasting enhances their flavor and crunchiness.
Unleash the vibrant essence of the Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine with these carefully selected ingredients, and prepare for a cooking experience that will warm your heart and home!
How to Make Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine
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Preheat: Preheat your oven to 220°C (or gas mark 7). This initial step sets the stage for a beautifully roasted tagine, ensuring those flavors meld together perfectly.
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Roast Chickpeas: Toss the drained chickpeas with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until crispy. Their crunchiness will add a delightful texture to your dish!
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Sauté Aromatics: In an ovenproof pan, heat some olive oil and sweat the sliced onions, garlic, and all the spices for about 8 minutes. Then, add the green pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is fragrant and slightly softened.
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Add Wine: Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce by half, cooking for about 2-3 minutes. This step adds depth and richness to your tagine, enhancing those Mediterranean notes.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the green olives, preserved lemons, sliced potatoes, bay leaf, and vegetable stock. Mix it all together well and reduce the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and a bit crispy on top.
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Finish & Serve: Once done, mix in the chopped coriander just before serving. Top with your crispy chickpeas and a sprinkle of fresh coriander for an extra burst of freshness.
Optional: Serve warm with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine?
Create a well-rounded meal that tantalizes the senses and complements the vibrant flavors of this delightful tagine.
- Crispy Flatbreads: Perfect for scooping up the tagine’s rich sauce, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs the savory broth, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This bright green veggie adds a pop of color, plus that roasted aroma complements the spices beautifully.
- Spiced Quinoa: Nutty and protein-packed, quinoa brings an earthy touch that pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean-inspired tagine.
- Minted Yogurt Sauce: A refreshing dip that cools the palate while enhancing the tagine’s warmth with a creamy elegance.
- Pomegranate Salad: Tart and sweet, the jewel-like pomegranate seeds add freshness and texture, brightening every mouthful.
Whether it’s a crisp salad or warm bread, these accompaniments will elevate your dining experience, making your potato, olive, and preserved lemon tagine a true feast!
Make Ahead Options
This Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can chop and prepare all the fresh ingredients, including the potatoes, olives, and preserved lemons, up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, sauté your aromatics and continue with the recipe as directed. This strategy not only saves you time on busy evenings but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the cooking process, ensuring that your tagine is just as delicious when finished!
Storage Tips for Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine
Fridge: Store the tagine in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful for your next meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tagine in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the tagine gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave until hot. A splash of vegetable stock can help revive any lost moisture.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the potato, olive, and preserved lemon tagine with a side of crusty bread or over rice when serving!
Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and explore new flavors that will elevate your tagine experience!
- Sweet Potato: Substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist, providing a lovely contrast to the briny olives.
- Grain Boost: Incorporate cooked quinoa or couscous for added texture and a filling touch that complements the dish perfectly.
- Roasted Veggies: Add carrots or zucchini to enhance the variety of flavors, giving your tagine a colorful explosion of Mediterranean goodness.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that adds a fragrant twist to the overall profile.
- Heat Level: For those who love heat, include sliced fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a spicy kick to the dish.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in toasted almonds or pine nuts just before serving for a delightful crunch and an elegant touch.
- Lemon Zest: Sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the tagine just before serving for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
- Beans Galore: Add a can of drained chickpeas or cannellini beans for an extra protein boost and heartiness that elevates the dish even further.
Expert Tips for Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine
Uniform Slicing: Ensure the potatoes are sliced uniformly to guarantee even cooking and a pleasing texture throughout the potato, olive, and preserved lemon tagine.
Rinse Preserved Lemons: If using preserved lemons, rinse them first to reduce saltiness; this will help balance the flavors beautifully.
Flavor Boost: For richer flavor, let the tagine sit for a few minutes after baking before serving to allow the spices to meld together.
Monitor Chicken Crispiness: Keep an eye on the chickpeas while roasting; they should be crunchy and golden, but avoid overbaking to maintain texture.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, to add more color and flavor complexity to your dish!
Potato, Olive, and Preserved Lemon Tagine Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the tagine?
For the best results, use waxy potatoes like Charlotte or Anya, which hold their shape well during cooking. They’re perfect for this potato, olive, and preserved lemon tagine, providing a lovely texture.
How should I store leftover tagine?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve its flavors.
Can I freeze the potato, olive, and preserved lemon tagine?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the tagine to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable stock for moisture.
What if my potatoes are overcooked?
If they become mushy, don’t worry too much. You can salvage the dish by adding extra crispy chickpeas on top for texture. For future reference, ensure even slicing and check for doneness around the 40-minute mark to prevent this.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
This tagine is vegan-friendly, making it perfect for plant-based diets. However, if you’re preparing it for pets, be cautious with the salt content in preserved lemons and olives; they’re not suitable for them.
Delicious Potato, Olive and Preserved Lemon Tagine Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (or gas mark 7).
- Toss the drained chickpeas with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until crispy.
- In an ovenproof pan, heat some olive oil and sweat the sliced onions, garlic, and all the spices for about 8 minutes. Then, add the green pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce by half, cooking for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the green olives, preserved lemons, sliced potatoes, bay leaf, and vegetable stock. Mix well and reduce oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake for about 45 minutes.
- Mix in the chopped coriander just before serving. Top with crispy chickpeas and fresh coriander.