Za'atar Tagine Twists

Introduction to Za'atar Tagine Twists

Za'atar Tagine Twists are a modern take on the traditional Middle Eastern tagine, infused with the aromatic and tangy blend of Za'atar, a spice mix integral to Levantine cuisine. Primarily consisting of sumac, sesame seeds, and dried herbs, Za'atar brings a distinct flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the rich, slow-cooked nature of a tagine. This dish reflects a fusion of culinary traditions, marrying the classic slow-cooking method of North African tagine dishes with the vibrant freshness of Levantine flavors.

History of Tagine

The tagine traces its roots back to Berber North Africa, where nomadic tribes first crafted these ingenious vessels. Designed for long, slow cooking, the tagine's conical lid allowed for the condensation of steam, basting the food and intensifying its flavors. Traditionally, tagines were used to braise meat, poultry, or fish, along with vegetables and sometimes dried fruit or nuts, creating hearty, flavorful dishes meant to be shared. Over centuries, the influences of Arabic, Turkish, and Andalusian cuisines melded into the varied interpretations of tagine we know today.

Ingredients

To create Za'atar Tagine Twists, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Za'atar - 3 tablespoons
• Chicken thighs - 1 pound, skinless and boneless
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1 large, sliced
• Carrots - 2, cut into rounds
• Chickpeas - 1 can, drained and rinsed
• Chicken stock - 2 cups
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Coriander powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Couscous, to serve
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Parsley leaves, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

Marinade and Prepare the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken thighs. In a bowl, combine the Za'atar, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly, then let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight if possible to let the flavors meld.

Prepare Vegetables

While your chicken is marinating, slice the onion and carrots. Drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Tagine

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a tagine or a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and carrots, sautéing them until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pot. Cook until they are browned on all sides.
4. Add the drained chickpeas, chicken stock, honey, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cinnamon.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded. Use a cooking timer here to keep track.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, serve the Za'atar Tagine Twists over a bed of fluffed couscous. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Pair your meal with fresh, crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices and a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.

How to Enjoy

This dish is best enjoyed in the company of family and friends, as with most traditional Middle Eastern meals. The social aspect of sharing a meal from a communal tagine enhances the experience, allowing everyone to savor the complex flavors that Za'atar and slow cooking bring.