Tantalising Vegan Dishes For Your Tagine

What’s a tagine?

A tagine is an earthenware pot that consists of a flat base that is covered by a conical lid. Earthenware pots are used in a multitude of different cultures, but the tagine is unique to North Africa, particularly Morocco. Tagine dates back centuries, recognised widely as being attributed to the Berbers. Tagine means ‘shallow earthen pot’ in Arabic, but is also the name of stews cooked in the pots, as tagine refers to both the food and the pot itself. 

What’s special about tagines?

Tagine pots are fantastic to cook things in slowly and for a long time— the result is unique to the cooking method and is difficult to recreate any other way. This is because through its shape, heat rises to the top of the dome where it condenses and falls back down to the food, which means whatever you cook is constantly simmering in its own juices as well as the condensed steam, which keeps food perpetually moist and tender. 

Where can I get a tagine?

If you aren’t able to get yourself down to the Moroccan souks anytime soon, tagines are sold by lots of major retailers. Unsurprisingly, they won’t be the most authentic; made suitable for induction and electric hobs, some tagines use metal which is not traditional but still convenient, like this tagine from Le Crueset. If you’re looking for something a bit more down to earth (pun intended), try this one from Etsy.

What can I make with a tagine?

Glad you asked! Tagines are delicious for stewed vegetables, and are a great way of creating beautifully spiced dishes that are sure to wow guests at parties too— just picture yourself at the table taking off the tagine lid to reveal one of these delicious creations. 

Carrot and chickpea tagine

Fragrant and vibrant, this carrot and chickpea tagine would be beautifully rich in a tagine pot. Left to simmer in a perfect concoction of garlic, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, harissa and apricots, it's sweet, salty and perfectly spiced for a delightful dinner for family or friends. 

Spiced aubergine tagine

This tagine is packed with slow-roasted aubergine and is the heavenly blend of spices, sweetness and warmth. In a tagine pot, the aubergine will be tender, juicy and melt-in-the-mouth soft, and what more could you want?