Dutch-inspired Chicken Tajine with Apricots and Almonds

Ingredients

This Dutch-inspired Chicken Tajine incorporates elements of Dutch cuisine, such as the use of Dutch spices like nutmeg and cloves, which add a unique twist to the traditional Moroccan Tajine. Additionally, the dish includes apricots, a fruit commonly used in Dutch cooking, to enhance the sweetness and flavor profile. The use of almonds provides a crunchy texture, which is not typically found in traditional Moroccan Tajines. We alse have the original recipe for Tajine, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup dried apricots 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or Tajine pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, coriander, nutmeg, cloves, paprika, and turmeric. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the chicken and stir well to coat.
5. 5.
   Add the cinnamon stick, dried apricots, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. 7.
   In a separate pan, toast the slivered almonds over medium heat until they turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Serve the Dutch-inspired Chicken Tajine hot, garnished with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apricots — Soak the dried apricots in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the Tajine. This will help them rehydrate and become plump and juicy.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have a Tajine pot, you can use a Dutch oven or any heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
• Serve the Chicken Tajine with steamed couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Dutch-inspired Chicken Tajine as a main course, accompanied by steamed couscous or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Present the Dutch-inspired Chicken Tajine in a traditional Tajine pot or a decorative serving dish. The vibrant colors of the apricots and almonds will make the dish visually appealing. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves and toasted almonds on top for an elegant finishing touch.