Ras el hanout is a Moroccan spice blend that adds a depth of flavor and aroma to any dish. With its complex combination of spices, including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and nutmeg, ras el hanout is the perfect addition to your cooking repertoire. From hearty stews and soups to flavorful meats and vegetables, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this exotic spice blend.
In this article, you’ll discover how to incorporate ras el hanout into a variety of dishes, from traditional Moroccan cuisine to international flavors with an added twist. Whether you’re looking for new inspiration for dinner parties or simply want to add some excitement to your weeknight meals, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Ras el Hanout
A flavorful and aromatic slow-cooked lamb tagine infused with the warm, spicy essence of Ras el Hanout, a traditional Moroccan spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into large chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in the base of a clay or ceramic tagine (or a Dutch oven with a heavy lid).
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Ras el Hanout; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lamb chunks; brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and broth or water; bring to a boil.
6. Cover and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Ras el Hanout Spiced Chicken Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of North African cuisine with these aromatic chicken skewers, infused with the warm spices of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers (10-12)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Ras el Hanout, lemon juice, and salt. Add chicken pieces and toss until well coated.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
4. Brush the tops with any remaining marinade and sprinkle with parsley.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Vegetable Couscous with Ras el Hanout
Discover the aromatic flavors of Morocco with this simple and delicious Vegetable Couscous recipe, infused with the warm spices of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the Ras el Hanout and season with salt to taste.
6. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and add it to the skillet. Toss to combine with the vegetables and spices.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas
Ras el Hanout Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas: A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the warm, aromatic spices of Ras el Hanout with roasted carrots and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chickpeas and cook for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Stir in Ras el Hanout spice blend and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss roasted carrots with chickpea mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spiced Beef and Lentil Soup with Ras el Hanout
Warm up on a chilly day with this aromatic soup, infused with the spices of North Africa. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 cups lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp Ras el Hanout (North African spice blend)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the lentils, beef broth, Ras el Hanout, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ras el Hanout Grilled Eggplant with Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your eggplant game with the bold flavors of Ras el Hanout, a Moroccan spice blend. This grilled eggplant dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a flavorful side.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and season with Ras el Hanout, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix yogurt with parsley in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled eggplant with yogurt sauce spooned over the top. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Fish with Ras el Hanout and Lemon
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this aromatic fish dish, infused with the warm spices of ras el hanout and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 tsp ras el hanout
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ras el hanout and olive oil.
3. Place the fish fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the ras el hanout mixture.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish, then sprinkle with garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ras el Hanout Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Ras el Hanout spice blend in this hearty sweet potato and chickpea stew. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, chickpeas, Ras el Hanout spice blend, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Ras el Hanout
Elevate your appetizers with these aromatic lamb meatballs infused with the warm, exotic flavors of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Ras el Hanout, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ras el Hanout Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Ras el Hanout as it transforms roasted cauliflower into a delightful and nutritious side dish. This recipe combines the spices of Morocco with the creamy richness of tahini for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and place on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Ras el Hanout, salt, and garlic.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
7. Remove cauliflower from the oven and toss with tahini mixture.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Moroccan-Style Chicken and Rice with Ras el Hanout
This flavorful dish is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, combining tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice. The addition of ras el hanout, a blend of ground spices, adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend)
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in ras el hanout, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is fluffy.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup, infused with the exotic flavors of Ras el Hanout spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and Ras el Hanout. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the pumpkin and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Ras el Hanout and Garlic Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this aromatic and flavorful shrimp dish, infused with the warm spices of ras el hanout and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ras el hanout
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ras el hanout and olive oil.
3. Brush the shrimp with the ras el hanout mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Brush the grilled shrimp with the garlic butter during the last minute of cooking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Lamb Chops with Mint
Experience the bold flavors of North Africa with this aromatic recipe, featuring tender lamb chops infused with the warmth of Ras el Hanout spice blend and the freshness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Ras el Hanout and salt.
3. Brush lamb chops with olive oil and sprinkle the spice blend mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
4. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. While the lamb is cooking, combine mint leaves and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
7. Once lamb is done, serve hot topped with fresh mint mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Ras el Hanout
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas, the earthy taste of spinach, and the warm aromatics of Ras el Hanout spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, Ras el Hanout, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and spinach leaves.
6. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Roasted Nuts
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional roasted nuts, infused with the warm spices of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and Ras el Hanout.
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Carrot and Ginger Soup with Ras el Hanout
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots and ginger with the exotic flavors of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil until they start to soften.
2. Add the broth, coconut milk, Ras el Hanout, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Infused Olive Oil for Dipping
Ras el Hanout Infused Olive Oil for Dipping Recipe
Elevate your dining experience with this aromatic and flavorful Ras el Hanout infused olive oil, perfect for dipping crudités, bread, or whatever you desire.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Ras el Hanout spice blend (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
– 1 small clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and Ras el Hanout spice blend. Whisk until well combined.
2. Add the minced garlic to the oil mixture and whisk again to distribute evenly.
3. Taste the infused oil and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more Ras el Hanout or garlic to your liking.
4. Transfer the infused oil to a serving bowl or a decorative oil dispenser.
Cooking Time:
– None! This is a simple infusion process that requires no cooking time.
Tips:
– For an added layer of flavor, let the infused oil sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the aromas to meld together.
– Use this delicious oil as a finishing touch for your favorite dishes or enjoy it on its own with crudités and warm pita bread.
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco with these 18 exotic Ras el Hanout recipes! From hearty stews and soups to savory meat dishes and flavorful vegetables, Ras el Hanout adds a unique blend of spices to elevate your meals. Try Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Ras el Hanout, Spiced Beef and Lentil Soup, or Grilled Shrimp with Ras el Hanout and Garlic Butter. Also, explore sweet treats like Ras el Hanout Roasted Carrots and Chickpeas and Spiced Pumpkin Soup. Get ready to spice up your cooking with these flavorful recipes!
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