Name: Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 3 lbs Beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 large Onion, chopped; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 inch Ginger, grated; 1 tsp Ground cumin; 1 tsp Ground coriander; 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder; 1/4 tsp Cinnamon; 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups Beef broth; 1 cup Dried apricots, halved; 1/2 cup Raisins; 1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Cooked couscous, for serving; 1/4 cup Sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish (optional); 1 Lemon, cut into wedges, for serving

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This Moroccan-inspired beef stew is a rich, flavorful dish full of warm spices, tender beef, and sweet dried apricots and raisins. The savory and slightly sweet combination of ingredients, enhanced by aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, makes this stew an unforgettable meal. Served with couscous and topped with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stew is an exciting blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. The beef chuck roast becomes incredibly tender as it simmers with the spices, while the apricots and raisins add a subtle sweetness that balances the warmth of the spices. The hint of cinnamon and cayenne pepper gives the dish depth and complexity. Served with couscous, this stew is hearty and satisfying, with a perfect mix of textures and flavors. It’s a beautiful and comforting dish that will surely impress your guests or your family.

Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins

Ingredients

3 lbs Beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 large Onion, chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 inch Ginger, grated
1 tsp Ground cumin
1 tsp Ground coriander
1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
1/4 tsp Cinnamon
1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 (14.5 oz) can Diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups Beef broth
1 cup Dried apricots, halved
1/2 cup Raisins
1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cooked couscous, for serving
1/4 cup Sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish (optional)
1 Lemon, cut into wedges, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices, releasing their flavors.
Add Tomatoes and Beef: Pour in the diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef back into the pot along with any juices. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Stew: Add the beef broth, dried apricots, and raisins to the pot. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Serve the stew over a bed of cooked couscous. Garnish with fresh cilantro, toasted sliced almonds, and lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a finely chopped fresh chili for more heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with hearty vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Add More Fruit: You can also add other dried fruits, such as prunes or dates, for additional sweetness and texture.
Nut-Free: If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer not to use them, simply omit the toasted almonds.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stew for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat the stew in a pot over low heat, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, such as brisket or round roast, but chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness when slow-cooked.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricots?

Dried apricots work best for this recipe because they hold their shape during cooking and provide a natural sweetness. Fresh apricots would not have the same texture or flavor.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

What can I use instead of couscous?

You can serve this stew with rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a different base.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. It actually gets better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I make this stew spicier?

If you prefer a spicier stew, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced fresh chilies like jalapeños or serranos.

Can I substitute the raisins with another dried fruit?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries, figs, or prunes as a substitute for raisins.

What can I garnish this stew with besides cilantro and almonds?

You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini for an extra layer of richness.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole ones?

Yes, ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon can be used in place of whole spices, though the flavor may be slightly less vibrant.

How do I make this stew more “soupy”?

If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more beef broth or water until you reach your desired thickness.

Conclusion

This Moroccan-inspired beef stew with apricots and raisins is a deliciously hearty and aromatic dish full of rich flavors and comforting textures. The savory beef, combined with the sweetness of dried apricots and raisins, makes for a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a dish to serve at a family gathering or just craving something flavorful for dinner, this stew, served with couscous, is sure to impress.