Moroccan Spiced Squash And Lentil Tagine

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and use of aromatic spices that create a symphony of tastes in every bite. In this recipe, we will be making a delightful Moroccan Spiced Squash and Lentil Tagine that will transport you to the vibrant markets of Marrakesh with its warm and comforting blend of spices. This dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, with the earthiness of lentils complementing the sweetness of butternut squash, all simmered together in a flavorful broth infused with Moroccan spices. Let’s dive into this recipe that will surely warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.

Moroccan Spiced Squash and Lentil Tagine

Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in the ground cumin, cinnamon, coriander, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Allow the spices to toast for a minute to release their flavors.

4. Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to coat the squash with the fragrant spice mixture.

5. Pour in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the lentils are cooked through.

7. Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.

8. Once the squash and lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat.

9. Serve the Moroccan Spiced Squash and Lentil Tagine hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

This Moroccan-inspired dish is a celebration of comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients that will elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at a dinner party. The blend of spices adds a depth of warmth to the dish, while the combination of squash and lentils offers a satisfying and hearty texture. Enjoy the rich flavors of Morocco in every bite of this delicious tagine that will surely become a favorite in your cozy home.