Name: Vegetable Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 onion, halved and sliced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 400g / 14 oz can crushed tomato; 2 cups vegetable stock; 1 x 400g / 14 oz can chickpeas, drained; 2 carrots, peeled and cut into 2.5cm / 1” pieces; 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 2.5cm / 1” pieces; 1 small eggplant, cut into 2.5cm / 1” cubes; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh coriander/cilantro, for garnish; Optional: preserved lemon or lemon zest, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Vegetable Tagine Recipe

This recipe combines everyday vegetables with a fragrant spice blend to create deep, comforting flavor. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and very adaptable — perfect for using whatever produce you have on hand. The slow simmer lets the spices and vegetables meld into a satisfying, stew-like dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• tagine spice mix (cardamom powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, ground fennel seeds, cayenne, turmeric, ground cloves, ground ginger)
• olive oil
• red onion
• garlic
• butternut pumpkin/squash
• small eggplant (aubergine)
• cauliflower florets
• capsicum/bell pepper
• tomatoes
• water
• salt
• black pepper
• canned chickpeas (drained)
• green beans
• lemon zest and lemon juice
• optional garnishes such as slivered almonds and chopped coriander/cilantro

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Mix the tagine spice mix in a small bowl.
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and onion until softened.
Add squash and cook until lightly golden, then remove. Repeat with eggplant and capsicum, removing each once browned.
Add tomatoes to the pot and cook briefly, then stir in the spice mix.
Return all vegetables to the pot. Add water, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer.
Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
Remove from oven, stir in green beans and chickpeas. Simmer uncovered on the stove for 15 minutes to reduce sauce.
Stir in lemon zest and juice.
Garnish with slivered almonds and chopped coriander if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8–10
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add protein with grilled chicken, lamb, or extra chickpeas.
• Swap in vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or sweet potatoes.
• Adjust cayenne to control spice level.
• Use vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
• Add preserved lemon or dried apricots for a Moroccan twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What is a tagine?

A tagine is a North African stew named after the traditional clay pot it’s cooked in. However, this recipe can be made in a Dutch oven or heavy pot.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa if needed.

Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely. Try zucchini, sweet potatoes, potatoes, or even leafy greens depending on what’s available.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, the recipe is completely plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.

What should I serve with vegetable tagine?

It pairs well with couscous, rice, flatbread, or quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder version. Increase it for more heat.

Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

Yes. Simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop more.

How do leftovers taste?

Even better the next day. The flavors deepen, and the sauce thickens for a richer result.

Can I add fruit like apricots?

Yes, adding dried fruit such as apricots or dates brings a touch of sweetness and authenticity to the dish.

Conclusion

Vegetable Tagine is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings Moroccan-inspired spices to your kitchen with tender vegetables and a satisfying broth. Its adaptability and rich taste make it a wonderful weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing main when entertaining. Enjoy it with your favorite grains or breads for a complete, comforting feast.