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Spicy Moroccan Shrimp Tagine

Close-up of spicy Moroccan shrimp tagine

This Spicy Moroccan Shrimp Tagine features tender shrimp cooked in a fragrant blend of spices, tomatoes, and preserved lemon, delivering vibrant North African flavors perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 preserved lemon, pulp removed and rind thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water or seafood stock
  • Optional: toasted almonds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a tagine or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne, ginger, and cinnamon; cook, stirring, for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes, preserved lemon rind, and water or seafood stock. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Add shrimp to the sauce in a single layer. Cover and cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in chopped cilantro and parsley just before serving.
  7. Garnish with toasted almonds if desired and serve hot with couscous or crusty bread.

Notes

For extra depth, marinate the shrimp in some of the spices and lemon zest for 15 minutes before cooking. Serve with fluffy couscous and a dollop of cooling yogurt to balance the spice.