A flavorful fusion of spices and textures — from Tasty ma4roc
Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its perfect balance of sweet and savory. This Vegan Moroccan Tagine with Chickpeas and Apricots is a heartwarming example — combining plant-based protein, warm spices, and a gentle touch of natural sweetness. It’s ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a wholesome dish that brings comfort and nourishment.
Inspired by traditional North African tagines, this version is completely meat-free, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ 100% plant-based
- ✅ Packed with protein and fiber
- ✅ Balanced sweet & savory flavors
- ✅ Family-friendly and meal-prep approved
- ✅ Naturally gluten-free
🧾 Ingredients
Serves 4
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 small sweet potato, cubed
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth or water
Moroccan Spices:
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Toasted almonds or sesame seeds
- Lemon wedges for serving
🍳 Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large tagine or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices
Stir in carrots, sweet potato, and all the spices. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables.
3. Simmer with Chickpeas and Apricots
Add chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, and apricots. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish and Serve
Stir in zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking to keep it firm.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot with fresh parsley, toasted almonds, and lemon wedges.
🍽️ What to Serve With
- Steamed couscous (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- Quinoa or brown rice for extra protein
- Moroccan bread (khobz) for dipping
- A side of Moroccan mint tea for a traditional touch
🧠 Nutritional Benefits
- Chickpeas: Excellent source of protein, iron, and fiber
- Apricots: Natural sweetness, rich in antioxidants
- Spices: Anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting
- Vegetables: Vitamins A, C, and potassium
- Olive oil: Heart-healthy fats
💡 Tips & Variations
- 🍠 You can substitute sweet potato with pumpkin or butternut squash
- 🌶️ Add harissa paste for a spicy version
- 🧄 Add preserved lemon for a tangy Moroccan twist
- 🥜 Sprinkle crushed pistachios or walnuts on top for crunch
- 🧊 Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days — even better the next day!
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Moroccan Tagine with Chickpeas and Apricots is the perfect harmony of flavors — sweet dried fruit, savory spiced vegetables, and earthy chickpeas all come together in a dish that’s hearty, healthy, and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, it’s a recipe that never fails to deliver.
Stay inspired with more plant-based Moroccan creations on Tasty ma4roc, where every bite tells a story.
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