Brussels Tagine

Introduction to Brussels Tagine

The Brussels tagine is a delightful North African-inspired dish that combines the hearty goodness of Brussels sprouts with aromatic spices and traditional tagine cooking techniques. Steeped in the rich history of Moroccan cuisine, tagine refers not only to the conical earthenware pot in which this dish is cooked but also to the set of recipes prepared inside. The use of Brussels sprouts marks a modern twist to this age-old method, creating a fusion that is both healthy and flavorful.

Brief History of Tagine Cooking

Tagine cooking has its roots in the Berber cuisine of North Africa, with its inception dating back to the 9th century. Originally designed to make the most out of available ingredients within the harsh climates of the Maghreb region, the tagine pot's unique shape enables moisture to be trapped and re-circulated, minimizing water usage while maximizing tenderness and flavor. Traditionally, meats and vegetables are slow-cooked alongside preserved lemons and a blend of spices, characterized by a delicate balance of flavor profiles.

Ingredients for Brussels Tagine

1. Brussels sprouts - 500g
2. Chickpeas - 1 can (400g), drained and rinsed
3. Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
4. Onion - 1 large, thinly sliced
5. Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
6. Canned tomatoes - 1 can (400g)
7. Vegetable broth - 2 cups
8. Cumin - 1 teaspoon
9. Coriander - 1 teaspoon
10. Paprika - 1 teaspoon
11. Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
12. Saffron threads - a pinch
13. Salt - to taste
14. Black pepper - to taste
15. Preserved lemons - 1, finely chopped
16. Dried apricots - 100g, chopped
17. Fresh cilantro - for garnish, roughly chopped

Preparation and Cooking Process

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by trimming the outer leaves and the stalk ends of the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half. Measure and prepare all ingredients listed above, ensuring the spices are combined in a small bowl for easy incorporation.

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or pot over medium heat. Add the onion slices and garlic and sauté until they become soft and translucent.

2. Stir in the spice mixture of cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and saffron. Cook for an additional minute until the spices are aromatic.

3. Add the Brussels sprouts and chickpeas to the pot, stirring them to coat with the spice and onion mixture.

4. Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Incorporate the preserved lemons and dried apricots. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Cover the pot and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the tagine to cook for about 40-45 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender. While simmering, feel free to set a timer to ensure perfect cooking time.

How to Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread, which helps to absorb the aromatic sauce. The vibrant colors and flavors of the Brussels tagine make it an excellent choice for communal dining experiences, offering a blend of sweet and savory tastes that enriches family gatherings and dinner parties alike.