Start by selecting your choice of protein, such as chicken, lamb, or beef. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in a mixture of spices like cumin, paprika, ginger, and turmeric for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, chop a variety of vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes.
Heat some olive oil in a tagine or a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Begin by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the chicken thighs and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Sprinkle in the ginger, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and paprika, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the tagine and let it cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Finally, stir in the pitted green olives and let them warm through for a few minutes. Serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, and sprinkle of toasted almonds or sesame seeds. The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and briny olives creates a flavor profile that is both exotic and comforting.
Enjoy this Moroccan-inspired dish with some fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread.
VARIATION:
Add a selection of your favorite vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
In a large tagine pot, heat some olive oil and sauté the vegetables until they become tender and slightly caramelized. This will enhance their natural sweetness. Next, season the vegetables with a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon to add depth and warmth to the dish. Finally, pour in a flavorful broth or tomato-based sauce and let the tagine simmer on low heat until all the flavors meld together.