Butternut and chickpea tagine
The butternut and chickpea tagine is a delightful medley of comforting ingredients, combining the warmth of harissa (for the ideal balance of spiciness, I recommend using Woolworths' brand harissa) , the earthy spice of cumin, and the fragrant touch of cinnamon. This dish is a true culinary hug in the form of a warm bowl, offering both nourishment and a burst of flavor with every bite. The star ingredients, butternut and chickpeas, are perfectly complemented by onions, garlic, tomato paste, and dried cranberries, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.The butternut and chickpea tagine is further enriched with a touch of brown sugar, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the heat from the harissa. The cumin and cinnamon provide an aromatic depth that elevates the dish, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Simple seasoning with salt and pepper ensures that the natural flavors of the ingredients are highlighted, allowing the butternut and chickpeas to truly shine.For added convenience, using ready-cubed butternut and tinned chickpeas makes the preparation of the butternut and chickpea tagine quick and hassle-free. This makes it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner when you desire something wholesome yet easy to prepare. Served with bulgur wheat, the butternut and chickpea tagine becomes a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.The butternut and chickpea tagine is a celebration of flavors and textures, offering a warming and comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of the butternut and chickpea tagine, and savor each bite of this delicious and nourishing dish.Indulge in the butternut and chickpea tagine, a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with its warm spices and wholesome ingredients. This tagine is more than just a meal; it's a bowl of warmth and satisfaction that you'll want to enjoy again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 200 g onions, peeled and sliced into half moons
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1-2 Tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 kg butternut cubes
- 1 tin chickpeas, drained
- 100 g dried cranberries
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 50 g tomato paste
- 4-5 tsp harissa paste (Woolworths' brand)
- 700 ml veggie or chicken stock
- salt and pepper
- 50 g almond flakes, roasted (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions and fry until translucent, about 10 minutes.
- Caramelize: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the honey or brown sugar and let it caramelize slightly, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Butternut: Add the butternut squash cubes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Main Ingredients: Add the chickpeas, dried cranberries, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, tomato paste, and harissa paste to the pot. Mix well to combine.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender. Stir occasionally and add a little more water if necessary to prevent sticking and to ensure there is a lovely sauce to soak into the couscous.
- Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the butternut and chickpea tagine over a bed of cooked bulgur wheat or couscous. For an extra special touch, sprinkle 50 grams of roasted sliced almonds over the top (optional).
- Reheat Well: This tagine reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade butternut and chickpea tagine, a perfect meal for any occasion.