Chicken tagine

6 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
1tablespoonOlive oil
1largeOnion(s), finely chopped
3Garlic clove(s) minced (1 tbs)
2tablespoonsGinger, minced
teaspoonTurmeric
teaspoonGround cumin seeds
teaspoonGround coriander seeds
1Cinnamon stick
6cups(to 8 cups) chicken stock
2tablespoonsLemon juice
½poundsTurnips, peeled cut into 3/4\" dice
½poundsCarrots, peeled cut into 3/4\" dice
½poundsParsnips, peeled cut into 3/4\" dice
½poundsCeleriac, peeled cut into 3/4\" dice sprinkled with
1tablespoonLemon juice
1tablespoonChopped Pickled Lemons (opt)
½cupRaisins
Salt and pepper
2poundsChicken breasts skinned and boned cut into 2\" pieces
½cupCooked chick-peas (opt)
cupChopped cilantro or flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Directions

Heat the oil in a large casserole dish. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon stick. Cover over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft but not brown. Add 6 cups of stock and the lemon juice, root vegetables, Pickled Lemons (if using), raisins, salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the root vegetables are almost tender. Add stock as necessary to keep the stew from drying out.

Just before serving, remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the chicken and chick-peas. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until cooked.

Correct the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Garnish with cilantro or parsley and serve at once.

Note: To serve as a traditional couscous, use 10 cups stock. Prepare the couscous and mound it on a platter or plates. Ladle the stew on top and serve with harissa or another hot sauce.

High-Flavor, Low-Fat Cooking by Steven Raichlen ISBN 0-1402-4123-X pg 131 Submitted By DIANE LAZARUS On 10-24-95