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A steaming Moroccan Meatball Tagine served in a traditional clay pot, with tender meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.

Moroccan Meatball Tagine

Emily Wilson
Discover the rich flavors of Moroccan Meatball Tagine with tender meatballs, aromatic spices, and a savory sauce perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Moroccan
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional for binding
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional for sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional for a citrusy kick
  • 1/2 cup green olives pitted
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin for sauce

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or lamb), breadcrumbs (if using), parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Brown the Meatballs:

  • Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or tagine over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, honey (if using), lemon zest (if using), olives, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and ground cumin. Stir to combine.

Simmer:

  • Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Serve:

  • Serve the Moroccan meatball tagine hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Pair with couscous, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
    • Fiber: 6g
    • Sugar: 10g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Potassium: 800mg
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 20% DV
  • Calcium: 10% DV
  • Iron: 20% DV
Keyword Moroccan Meatball Tagine