Moroccan Shrimp Tagine is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Moroccan cuisine to your table. This seafood tagine features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce infused with garlic, paprika, and fresh herbs. With a hint of citrus and optional heat from harissa or cayenne, this dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or couscous. Perfect for a special dinner, iftar, or any seafood lover’s delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Authentic Moroccan Flavors – Infused with classic spices like paprika, cumin, and turmeric.
- Healthy and Light – A protein-rich dish with minimal oil and fresh ingredients.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it with bread, rice, or couscous.
- Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to your preference with harissa or cayenne.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 500g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large tomato (grated)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ tsp harissa (optional for heat)
- ½ cup fresh coriander & parsley (chopped)
- Juice of ½ lemon
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a traditional tagine or a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the grated tomato, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, salt, cayenne (if using), and harissa (if using). Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the shrimp to the sauce, making sure they are well coated. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Stir in the fresh chopped coriander and parsley, followed by the lemon juice.
- Serve hot with warm crusty bread or over a bed of couscous for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetable Shrimp Tagine – Add bell peppers, zucchini, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy Version – Increase harissa or cayenne for a bolder kick.
- Creamy Shrimp Tagine – Stir in a spoonful of coconut milk or yogurt for a creamier sauce.
- Tangy Twist – Add preserved lemon slices for a more authentic Moroccan touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
2. Can I cook this dish without a tagine?
Absolutely! A regular skillet or pan works just as well to achieve great results.
3. What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Medium to large shrimp (fresh or frozen) work best. Avoid small shrimp, as they can overcook quickly.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and add shrimp just before serving.
5. What side dishes go well with shrimp tagine?
Crusty bread, couscous, rice, or a simple salad complement this dish perfectly.
6. How do I make it less spicy?
Simply omit the cayenne and harissa, or reduce the amount to your liking.
7. Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix in squid, mussels, or fish fillets for a seafood medley.
8. What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
Canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree can be used as a substitute.
9. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but you can use 1 tsp dried parsley and 1 tsp dried coriander if needed.
10. What drink pairs well with shrimp tagine?
Mint tea, lemon-infused water, or a light white wine (if consuming alcohol) complement the dish well.
Conclusion
Moroccan Shrimp Tagine is a quick yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine. Whether enjoyed during Ramadan, a special dinner, or a cozy meal at home, its blend of rich spices, fresh herbs, and juicy shrimp makes it an irresistible choice. Serve it with warm bread or couscous and savor the delightful flavors of Morocco.
