Moroccan Braised Beef Cheeks
Ingredients
- • 1000 g beef cheeks
- • 60 ml olive oil
- • 2 item onion
- • 4 cloves garlic
- • 10 g ground cumin
- • 10 g ground coriander
- • 5 g ground cinnamon
- • 5 g ground ginger
- • 10 g paprika
- • 2.5 g turmeric
- • 750 ml beef stock
- • 400 g diced tomatoes
- • 100 g dried apricots
- • 80 g dates
- • 2 item preserved lemons
- • 100 g green olives
- • 30 ml honey
- • 30 g fresh cilantro
- • 1 sprinkle salt to taste
- • 1 sprinkle black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Trim excess fat from beef cheeks and cut into large chunks. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or tagine over medium-high heat. Brown beef cheeks on all sides, working in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.
- 3
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- 4
Add all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, turmeric) and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 5
Return beef cheeks to the pot and add beef stock, diced tomatoes, and honey. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Cover tightly and transfer to a 325°F (160°C) oven, or continue on stovetop at lowest heat setting.
- 7
Braise for 2 hours, then add preserved lemons (quartered), dried apricots, and dates. Continue braising for another 45 minutes.
- 8
Add green olives in the final 15 minutes of cooking. The meat should be fork-tender and falling apart.
- 9
Check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be thick and coating the meat.
- 10
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Traditionally served with couscous or crusty bread.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition data is approximate and derived from OpenFoodFacts.org. Values may vary based on ingredients, brands, and preparation methods. Not intended as dietary or medical advice.
Chef's Note
"This Moroccan-spiced beef cheeks transform into buttery, melt-in-your-mouth perfection after slow braising with warming spices and sweet dried fruits. Serve over couscous with extra sauce spooned on top – the blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes this an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering."
