Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine is a hearty and aromatic dish inspired by traditional North African cuisine, specifically Moroccan flavors. Known for their playful and accessible take on world cuisine, the Hairy Bikers (Dave Myers and Si King) have crafted a version of this famous stew that stays true to its roots while simplifying the preparation for home cooks.

The tagine itself is named after the clay pot it’s traditionally cooked in, which is designed to lock in moisture and slow-cook meat to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. This dish features lamb, a rich meat, cooked with a variety of spices and sweet elements such as dried fruits, making it both savory and slightly sweet.

The lamb tagine is seasoned with a combination of spices like cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and saffron, which work together to create a comforting depth of flavor. The use of vegetables, like onions and tomatoes, alongside the lamb, infuses the dish with aromatic sweetness, while the dried fruits (often apricots or raisins) provide that perfect contrast of sweetness. The dish is typically served with couscous or bread, making it a filling and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine, here are the essential ingredients you’ll need:

1. Lamb – Typically, lamb shoulder or lamb neck fillets are used for their tenderness and ability to absorb the flavors from the spices. Cut into chunks, they provide the perfect base for a tagine.
2. Olive oil – For browning the lamb and sautéing the vegetables.
3. Onions – Usually one large onion or two smaller ones, finely chopped, to form the aromatic base.
4. Garlic – A few cloves, minced, to give a robust depth of flavor.

5. Spices

   • Ground cumin – For earthiness.
   • Ground cinnamon – For warmth and sweetness.
   • Ground ginger – For a slight kick and a fragrant note.
   • Turmeric – Adds color and a mild flavor.
   • Saffron – For its distinctive flavor and luxurious color.
   • Paprika – To add a smoky, slightly spicy undertone.
6. Tomatoes – Fresh or canned, chopped, to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
7. Dried fruit – Apricots, raisins, or prunes work well, offering a natural sweetness that contrasts with the savory flavors.
8. Lamb stock – To add depth and help the lamb cook slowly and evenly.
9. Honey – To add a hint of sweetness and balance the spice.
10. Couscous – To serve the tagine with. Couscous is the traditional accompaniment, as it soaks up the rich sauce.
11. Fresh herbs – Coriander or parsley, chopped, for garnish and added freshness.

Equipment Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:

1. Tagine Pot (optional) – If you have one, it’s ideal for authentic slow cooking. However, a Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot will also work perfectly.
2. Chopping board and knife – For prepping the vegetables and lamb.
3. Wooden spoon – To stir the ingredients as they cook.
4. Measuring spoons – To accurately measure the spices.
5. Serving dishes – For the finished tagine and couscous.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine

1. Prepare The Lamb

   • Cut the lamb into chunks, making sure to remove any excess fat.
   • Season the lamb pieces generously with salt and pepper.

2. Brown The Lamb

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium-high heat.
   • Add the lamb in batches, browning it on all sides. Once browned, remove the lamb and set it aside.

3. Cook The Onions And Garlic

   • In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add The Spices

   • Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, paprika, and saffron. Let them toast in the oil for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.

5. Combine The Tomatoes And Stock

   • Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned ones) to the pot and stir to combine.
   • Pour in the lamb stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Return The Lamb To The Pot

   • Add the browned lamb back into the pot along with any juices. Stir to combine with the tomato and spice mixture.

7. Add The Dried Fruits

   • Stir in the dried apricots (or raisins) and honey for sweetness.

8. Simmer

   • Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the lamb simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

9. Prepare The Couscous

   • While the lamb is cooking, prepare couscous according to the package instructions. Typically, it requires boiling water and a little oil or butter to fluff it up.

10. Finish The Dish

    • Once the lamb is tender, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary.
    • Serve the lamb tagine over a bed of fluffy couscous and garnish with fresh herbs like coriander or parsley.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Slow And Low Cooking

   • For tender lamb, slow-cook the dish. If possible, use a slow cooker or simmer it gently for a few hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop and the lamb becomes fork-tender.

2. Perfect Spice Balance

   • The key to a great tagine is balancing the spices. Taste as you go and adjust based on your preference. If you like more heat, add a bit of chili powder. If you prefer more sweetness, add extra dried fruit or a touch more honey.

3. Use Fresh Herbs For Garnish

   • Fresh coriander or parsley will brighten the rich flavors of the dish. Don’t skip this step!

4. Leftovers

   • This dish often tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving.

5. Vegetable Variations

   • Feel free to add extra vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash, to make the dish heartier.

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the richness of lamb with the warmth of spices and sweetness from dried fruits. With a straightforward recipe that allows for customization, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to explore Moroccan flavors in the comfort of their own kitchen. Whether served for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, this tagine is sure to impress with its vibrant, aromatic profile and tender lamb.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine is a flavorful, aromatic dish that combines the warmth of spices with the tender richness of lamb. However, while the recipe itself is already delicious, there are a few simple twists you can incorporate to elevate the dish even further. These variations allow you to experiment with different textures and flavors, ensuring that every time you make it, there’s something new to enjoy.

1. Add Dried Fruits for a Sweet Contrast

   One of the most common ways to tweak a traditional lamb tagine is by adding dried fruits like apricots, raisins, or prunes. These sweet fruits not only enhance the flavor profile but also add a delightful contrast to the savory depth of the lamb. Simply stir them into the tagine during the last 30 minutes of cooking, so they soften and infuse the sauce with their sweetness.

2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs for a Fragrant Boost

   While the Hairy Bikers’ recipe may already call for a mix of spices, fresh herbs can truly brighten up the dish. You can try adding cilantro or mint leaves right before serving to give the dish a fresh, herby finish. These herbs will add a vibrant pop of color and an aromatic kick that contrasts nicely with the earthy spices.

3. Swap Lamb for Other Meats

   Though lamb is the traditional choice for a tagine, you can easily swap it out for other meats like chicken, beef, or even goat. Each protein offers a different flavor profile.

   For example, chicken can lighten the dish, while beef offers a richer, deeper flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

4. Spice It Up

   If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding a few fresh chilies, like a red or green chili pepper. You can chop them finely and throw them in at the beginning, or you can add them later in the cooking process for a milder infusion. This adds a layer of spiciness that enhances the warming nature of the dish.

5. Add a Crunchy Element

   To add texture to your tagine, consider topping the dish with toasted almonds or sesame seeds just before serving. The nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the tender lamb and the soft vegetables, giving the dish a wonderful balance of textures.

6. Infuse with Preserved Lemon

   For a truly Moroccan twist, add some preserved lemon to your tagine. This ingredient is a classic in Moroccan cooking, and it brings a unique sourness that complements the spices. Simply chop up a small amount of preserved lemon and stir it in towards the end of cooking for that signature tang.

With any of these twists, you can customize the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine recipe to suit your own taste preferences, adding more sweetness, heat, or texture as you desire.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine (and it’s likely, given how hearty this dish is), it’s important to store them correctly to maintain their flavor and texture. Here are some simple steps to ensure that your leftovers stay fresh and delicious:

1. Cool Down the Tagine Quickly

   Before storing your leftovers, it’s crucial to cool down the dish to avoid bacterial growth. Allow the lamb tagine to sit at room temperature for no more than two hours after cooking. To speed up the cooling process, you can transfer it to a shallow container, which allows the heat to dissipate more quickly.

2. Use an Airtight Container

   Once cooled, store your leftovers in an airtight container. This helps to lock in the flavors and prevent any odors from seeping into the food. You can divide the tagine into smaller portions, making it easier to reheat and serve later.

3. Refrigeration

   Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking. The lamb tagine will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Always check the smell and texture before consuming leftovers, especially if they’ve been stored for a while.

4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you’d like to keep the tagine for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Lamb tagine freezes well, so you can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

   Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Label the containers with the date so you know how long it’s been in the freezer.

5. Reheating Tips

   When reheating, make sure to heat the lamb tagine thoroughly. The safest method is to reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

   You can also use the microwave, but ensure it’s heated all the way through. If you find the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a little bit of water or broth to loosen it.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine?

Lamb tagine is a rich and flavorful dish, so pairing it with the right sides can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some classic and creative ideas for what to serve alongside your Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine:

1. Couscous

   Couscous is a traditional side dish for tagine and is ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce. You can serve it plain or, for extra flavor, mix in some raisins, pine nuts, and a dash of cinnamon. Couscous cooks quickly and provides a light, fluffy base to balance the richness of the lamb.

2. Flatbreads or Pita

   Soft, warm flatbreads are perfect for dipping into the sauce of your lamb tagine. You can use traditional Moroccan khobz, or simply serve store-bought pita bread. The bread will absorb the juices and add an enjoyable texture contrast to the dish.

3. Vegetable Sides

   Moroccan cuisine often incorporates a variety of vegetables in its dishes. Consider serving roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers alongside your tagine. These vegetables provide a sweet and savory balance to the spiced lamb.

4. Green Salad

   To brighten the meal and add a fresh contrast, serve a simple green salad on the side. A salad with mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette will provide a crisp, refreshing element to balance the rich flavors of the tagine.

5. Yogurt or Harissa Sauce

   For an extra layer of flavor, serve the tagine with a side of creamy yogurt or spicy harissa sauce. The yogurt can mellow out the heat from any added chilies, while the harissa adds an extra depth of spice to the dish.

6. Pickled Vegetables

   Pickles are a common accompaniment to Moroccan meals. A small serving of pickled vegetables, like carrots or turnips, can add a tangy contrast to the earthy and sweet flavors of the lamb tagine.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine is a versatile and comforting dish that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re trying out new ingredients, experimenting with different proteins, or adding a few extra sides, the variations you can make will keep the dish exciting every time you prepare it.

Properly storing your leftovers ensures that the meal stays fresh for several days, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience. With these tips and twists, you’re sure to enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine recipe combines tender lamb with a mix of aromatic spices and vegetables. Key ingredients include lamb shoulder or leg, onions, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, paprika, saffron, and preserved lemons. Dried fruits like apricots or prunes add sweetness, while fresh cilantro and almonds bring a final burst of flavor and texture.

Can I Substitute The Lamb In The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the lamb with other meats like chicken or beef, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile. Chicken thighs are a good alternative for a lighter version, while beef can offer a heartier taste. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas and root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes work well in place of the meat.

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine, And Can I Make It In Advance?

Cooking the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Tagine typically takes about 2-3 hours, including the time for slow cooking the lamb until it becomes tender. You can certainly make the dish in advance as it benefits from resting and allowing the flavors to meld together.

In fact, it often tastes even better the next day. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat it gently before serving.