September 10, 2021

TAGINE POT: A BASIC HOW-TO GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

It’s practical, it’s easy to use, and it makes delicious food… It’s the tagine pot, and although you may not have heard of it before, this versatile piece of cookware is something you should strongly consider adding to your kitchen.

As a traditional pot that originates in North Africa, the tagine pot is probably unfamiliar to many North Americans. For a straightforward introduction, consider this:

• Do you like slow-cooked, meaty stews full of tender cuts of beef or mutton? 
• Do you enjoy fragrant foods full of aromatic spices and seasonings?
• Do you like to eat hearty meals that are comforting and fulfilling?

Did you answer “yes”? Good news – the tagine pot can make all of these things in a simple and easy fashion, making it a great tool to have in your kitchen lineup. Don’t be deterred if you’ve never experienced Moroccan cooking before; follow this basic guide to explain how the tagine pot can bring outstanding deliciousness to your home and family!

What is a tagine pot? What does it look like?

A tagine pot is a type of earthenware pot native to North African culture. They are slow cookers with round bases and low sides that are used in ovens and on stovetops to make foods like meaty stews.

Tagine pots have a dual role in which they are used for cooking as well as for serving food at the table; for this reason, some tagine are designed as decorative serving dishes specifically made to be put on tables. 

Sometimes called “tajine,” these pots traditionally feature a conical lid that gives it its iconic appearance. These heavy, cone-shaped lids help the slow-cooking process by trapping the steam inside and allowing it to trickle back down into the pot, creating dishes that are moist and full of concentrated flavors.

How do you cook with a tagine pot?

Cooking with a tagine pot is a relatively simple process. Tagine pots use a slow-cooking process similar to Dutch ovens or cast iron casserole pots.

1. Line the bottom. Create a cushion at the bottom of the tagine using vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, as well as cloves of garlic. This will help prevent the meat from burning and sticking to the bottom.
2. Add olive oil. Many traditional recipes call for olive oil in order to create thick and rich sauces.
3. Add meat and vegetables. Put the meat, fish, or chicken on top of the layer of vegetables in the center of the pot, and surround it with vegetables.
4. Add garnishes and spices. This slow-cooked meal can really benefit by adding fragrant spices that infuse with other ingredients over its long cooking time. Possible spices include cinnamon, cumin, cloves, nutmeg, paprika, peppercorn as well as ground coriander, ground ginger, and ground turmeric. As well, try garnishes like oregano or cilantro. Be as adventurous as you’d like, and try experimenting with new flavors!
5. Add water or broth. Put in a liquid base that will help your food stay moist. Adjust accordingly to your recipe. Remember, it doesn’t have to be too much because the lid will keep much of the steam inside.
6. Cook. Put your tagine pot over low to medium heat and slow cook for a long simmer. Recipes vary, but try to give it around two hours to prepare. If the liquid base has thickened, add more water or broth to keep it light.
7. Serve. Once cooked, let your tagine stand on its own for 15 minutes before serving. Bring to the dining table and serve in its own pot.

What types of tagine pots are there?

Tagine pots come in four different forms that each have their own characteristics:

1. Unglazed: This traditional format allows tagine pots to improve over time as spices steep into its porous material. However, unglazed tagine pots need to be cured before using, similar to the process used for a cast iron frying pan. Due to their construction, they are brittle, can not withstand high temperatures, and can not be used in ovens.
2. Glazed: This upgrade makes tagine pots easier to use by making them more resistant to burning, but won’t become “seasoned” due to their non-porous surfaces. At the same time, glazed pots share all other disadvantages of unglazed pots.
3. Aluminum: These pots are lightweight, portable, and are able to cook hotter than glazed and unglazed pots. Despite their higher durability, these types of pots can only handle smaller ingredient sizes, and can’t cook big cuts of meat.
4. Cast iron: Cast iron tagine pots have numerous advantages over their peers. They cook well over high heat, don’t crack or burn easily, and can be used in the oven or stovetop. Due to their versatility and durability, cast iron tagine pots are ideal for beginners.

Out of these four varieties, cast iron offers the most benefits, and is just the type of pot offered by Berlinger Haus. 

Our Emerald Cast Iron Tagine Pot features an enamel coating which makes using it simple and convenient. It features Turbo Induction heat distribution that makes it ideal for all cooktop ranges including ceramic, halogen, and gas stoves. Also available in Aquamarine, this 8¾ inch pot is a veritable workhorse that will provide one great meal after another!

What types of recipes can I make in a tagine pot?

Because tagine is a type of cooking rather than a specific dish, there are many delicious recipes you can try out with your tagine pot:

• Meatball Tagine in Tomato Sauce: This popular comfort food pairs well-seasoned meatballs (kefta mkaoura) in a spicy homemade tomato sauce. Garnished with poached eggs, this traditional food has become a fast favorite for many households.
• Vegetarian Chickpea and Carrot Tagine: This hearty meal makes for the perfect vegetarian entree or side dish highlighted by a touch of sweetness from its cinnamon and honey ingredients.
• Chicken Tagine: This traditional Moroccan dish features chicken pieces braised with spices, garlic, onion, olives, and preserved lemons.
• Beef Tagine with Creamed Polenta: Complement the tender and spicy beef with a creamy smooth texture for an enjoyable all-round meal.
• Shakshuka: This simple and delicious traditional dish consists of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce cooked with onions, chili peppers and herbs.

Interested in getting your own tagine pot? Berlinger Haus offers a wide variety of practical cookware in addition to our own versatile cast iron tagine pots. Browse our online marketplace to find great deals on high-quality, European-designed cookware and kitchenware.

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