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Spicy Moroccan Shrimp Tagine

A vibrant and aromatic Moroccan shrimp tagine bursting with spicy flavors, tender shrimp, and a fragrant blend of traditional spices—perfect for an exotic and quick dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 preserved lemon, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Cooked couscous or rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a tagine or large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, and cinnamon; cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Add diced tomatoes and broth; stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavors.
  6. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the tagine or skillet. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  7. Stir in preserved lemon, fresh cilantro, and parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve hot over cooked couscous or rice, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra depth, add a handful of green olives during the simmering step or serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the heat.