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Apricot Chicken Tagine with Ginger & Mint

The delectable combination of flavours in an Apricot Chicken Tagine is a true testament to the enchanting cuisine of North Africa. This dish, infused with the sweetness of apricots and the warmth of spices, is a perfect meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The addition of ginger and fresh mint elevates the dish, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savoury that lingers in the palate. This article will guide you through the intricacies of preparing this delightful tagine that is sure to impress your family and friends.

A Brief Introduction to Tagine

A tagine is a traditional North African stew named after the earthenware pot it is cooked in. The pot features a conical lid that allows steam to circulate during cooking, which keeps meats tender and infuses the dish with rich flavours. While you may not have a tagine pot at home, a heavy-based casserole dish can be used to achieve similar results.

Ingredients

For the Tagine:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp paprika
• 150g dried apricots, halved
• 400ml chicken stock
• 2 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish:

• A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Toasted almond flakes (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a tagine pot or casserole dish over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown on both sides. This should take around 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, followed by the ground cumin, ginger, cinnamon, and paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their fragrances.

3. Combine the Ingredients:
   Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it among the onions and spices. Add in the halved dried apricots, chicken stock, and honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

4. Slow Cook the Tagine:
   If using a tagine pot, cover it with the lid. If using a casserole dish, cover tightly with a lid or foil. Lower the heat and let the tagine simmer for about 40-50 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it does not stick or dry out, adding a splash of water if necessary.

5. Finishing Touches:
   Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. If desired, reduce the sauce slightly over high heat until it thickens. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

6. Serve:
   Serve the apricot chicken tagine warm. Garnish with chopped fresh mint and toasted almond flakes for an added crunch. This tagine pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoying the Experience

Apricot Chicken Tagine with Ginger & Mint is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The colourful presentation and tantalising aromas bring an inviting atmosphere to your dining table. As you savour each bite, you’ll appreciate the depth of flavours created by slow cooking and the thoughtful combination of sweet and spicy ingredients.

Gather your family or friends, prepare this delightful dish, and take a culinary journey to North Africa without leaving your kitchen. Bon appétit!