Moroccan Kefta Tagine with Eggs is a rich and aromatic dish made with spiced meatballs simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce and topped with runny eggs. This classic Moroccan dish is traditionally cooked in a tagine and served with crusty bread, making it a perfect meal for Ramadan iftar or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Moroccan Flavor – Infused with traditional spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon.
- Perfect for Ramadan & Gatherings – A hearty, protein-packed dish ideal for iftar.
- One-Pot Meal – Everything is cooked in one pan or tagine for easy cleanup.
- Rich & Satisfying – Juicy meatballs, a spiced tomato sauce, and soft eggs create a comforting meal.
- Great for Dipping – Best enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Kefta (Meatballs):
- 500g ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley & coriander (chopped)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 3 large tomatoes (grated)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup water
Additional Ingredients:
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley & coriander
- Crusty bread for serving
Directions
1. Prepare the Kefta (Meatballs)
- In a bowl, mix the ground meat with grated onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and chopped herbs.
- Shape into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut, and set aside.
2. Make the Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a tagine or deep pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in grated tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, chili flakes (if using), cinnamon, salt, and water.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Cook the Kefta
- Gently add the meatballs to the sauce, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Eggs
- Crack the eggs directly into the tagine, spacing them apart.
- Cover and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and coriander.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version – Increase the chili flakes or add harissa for extra heat.
- Cheesy Kefta Tagine – Sprinkle feta or crumbled goat cheese on top before serving.
- Vegetable Addition – Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for extra texture.
- No-Egg Option – Simply omit the eggs if you prefer a classic kefta tagine without them.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Avoid microwaving the eggs, as they may become rubbery.
- Freezing: The kefta and sauce can be frozen before adding the eggs. Thaw, reheat, then add fresh eggs before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute with 1 ½ cups of canned crushed tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available.
2. Do I need a tagine to make this dish?
No, a deep skillet or Dutch oven works well as a substitute.
3. How can I make the meatballs extra tender?
Use ground lamb or beef with some fat and avoid over-mixing the kefta mixture.
4. Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different.
5. What can I serve with Kefta Tagine?
It pairs well with couscous, rice, or a simple side salad.
6. How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?
Cover and cook on low heat, checking frequently to ensure the yolks remain slightly runny.
7. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and kefta ahead of time, then reheat and add eggs before serving.
8. What is the best type of bread to serve with this dish?
Moroccan khobz, baguette, or pita bread are great for scooping up the sauce.
9. Can I make this dish without eggs?
Yes, the kefta tagine is delicious on its own without eggs.
10. Can I add other spices to the kefta mixture?
Absolutely! Some variations include adding nutmeg, allspice, or ground coriander for extra depth.
Conclusion
Moroccan Kefta Tagine with Eggs is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the essence of Moroccan cuisine to your table. Whether served for Ramadan iftar or a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its rich tomato sauce, spiced meatballs, and perfectly cooked eggs. Enjoy it with warm bread for the ultimate Moroccan dining experience!
