How to Use a Moroccan Tagine Correctly?

Did you recently buy a Moroccan Tagine pot but are unsure how to use it? Well, it’s super easy to use, just like cooking in one of your Dutch ovens.

As a Moroccan, I naturally learned how to use a Tagine from my mom. But it’s not rocket science.

Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be cooking delicious Moroccan meals in no time.

What is a Tagine?

Tagine -also spelled Tajine- is a traditional clay pot that is used in Morocco for cooking.

In Moroccan households, tagine pots are used daily to slow-cook some of the most delicious and healthy meals you’ll ever try.

Tagine pots are made of pure clay, which is one of the healthiest materials for cookware today. I make sure to use my Tagine at least once or twice a week.

Also, clay pots require slow to medium heat, and the steam that builds up inside helps lock in flavors, keeping the food moist, tender, and full of zest.

Depending on how you plan to use it, Moroccan tagine pots can be used on the stovetop or in the oven, making them a versatile cooking option.

How to use a Tagine pot step-by-step

Here’s a step-by-step guide on using your Tagine pot correctly.

1. Season Your Tagine (If New)

If your tagine is unglazed clay, you must season it before first use:

to season your Tagine do the following:

1. Soak the entire tagine (lid and base) in water for 24 hours.
2. Drain and let it dry completely.
3. Rub the inside of the base and lid with olive oil.
4. Place it in a cold oven, then set the temperature to 150°C (300°F) and bake for 2 hours.
5. Let it cool completely before washing and using.

(If your tagine is glazed, you can skip this step.)

2. Preparing the Tagine for Cooking

1. Use a cast iron heat diffuser if cooking on a stovetop (prevents cracking).
2. Add olive oil to the base before heating. Moroccan recipes often start with olive oil or smen (fermented butter).
3. Layer ingredients:

• Start with onions and garlic (to prevent burning).
• Add meat, chicken, or fish in the center.
• Add dried spices, mix well, and let the meat simmer for a few minutes.
• Surround it with vegetables
• Pour a small amount of water or broth (around ½ cup).

3. Cooking in a Tagine

1. Low and slow: Always use low to medium-low heat to avoid cracking the clay.
2. Cover and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the recipe.
3. Check occasionally but avoid lifting the lid too often (it keeps the steam in).
4. Add water if needed, but don’t stir too much, ingredients should cook gently.

4. Serving

1. Serve directly in the tagine this keeps food warm for a long time.

5. Cleaning & Storing

1. Let it cool before washing to prevent thermal shock.
2. Hand wash only (no dishwasher).
3. Use warm water and a soft sponge (avoid harsh soaps).
4. Let it air dry completely before storing.

Buying a Tagine Guide

Types of Tagines

There are two types of Tagine pots: glazed and unglazed.

Glazed Moroccan tagines have a smooth, glossy finish on the exterior. The glaze is typically applied to the inside of the pot as well, which makes it durable, non-stick, and easier to clean.

Also, glazed tagines are not considered the healthiest option for cooking while unglazed tagines can be more delicate and may crack easily.

The problem with this type of Tagine pot is that it may contain lead and other harmful chemicals that many sellers choose not to disclose.

So, when hunting for a glazed tagine, make sure to choose a safe option like this Glazed lead-free Moroccan tagine pot (10 inches). or this large authentic tagine pot (13 inches).

Another lead-free tagine option is Emile Henry Tagine pot. They come in big sizes (12+ inches) which is great for large families or if you entertain often.

Unglazed tagine pots

Unglazed Moroccan tagines, on the other hand, have a more rustic look, feel, and smell. They are usually made from red clay and have a porous surface.

Unglazed Moroccan tagine pots require more care and upkeep, but they produce better-tasting dishes.

My mom prefers the glazed tagine as she uses it almost daily while I prefer the unglazed.

Here is my 12-inches unglazed tagine pot.

If your goal is to have flavor and authenticity, go for an unglazed tagine. But, if you’re after style and durability, a glazed tagine might be a better choice for you.

Colorful Moroccan tagine pots?

If you have ever been to Morocco, you’ve probably seen the beautiful, colorful Moroccan tagines in the marketplaces.

They come in different sizes from very tiny ones to big ones that can feed a family.

These tagine pots are purely for serving or decoration and should not be used for cooking.

I usually these colorful tagine pots for serving food that I already cooked in regular cookware to add a Moroccan touch to the presentation.

Here is an affordable colorful tagine for serving. You can combine it with this Moroccan cute tagine spice holder 3 in 1 set.

You can also use the small ones to serve salads, and sauces or you can just display them in your kitchen.

Moroccan tagine pots make for a beautiful decorative item.

What size to buy?

Moroccan tagines typically come in small, medium, and large sizes.

Small Moroccan tagines are about 8 to 10 inches and they are good for feeding one to two people, while large Moroccan tagines can go up to 15 inches to feed a family of four or more.

There are other options in between these sizes as well, so choose the one that best fits your needs and travel luggage.

Where to buy Tagines in Morocco?

Moroccan tagine pots are widely available in Morocco, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one.

They can be found in most souks (open markets) in big cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca.

The price of a tagine depends on its type (Glazed/Unglazed) and size. The bigger the Tagine is, the more pricey it will be.

Usually, a 10-inch Moroccan Tagine pot will cost you around 100dh to 150dh (that’s approx $10 to $15).

Safe Tagines you can buy online

If you’re not in Morocco or if you want to buy a Moroccan tagine pot without having to haggle over the price, several online retailers sell Moroccan tagines but the most convenient one is Amazon.

Here are a few of the best Moroccan tagine pots available online:

–Unglazed Moroccan tagine pot (12 inches)

–Authentic Moroccan tagine pot (13 inches)

–Glazed lead-free Moroccan tagine pot (10 inches)

–Emile Henry Large Moroccan Tagine pot

–Non-stick cast iron Moroccan tagine pot

–Colorful Moroccan tagine pot for serving

–Moroccan tagine spice holder 3 in 1 set

–Cast Iron heat diffuser plate for your tagine

If you ever buy a tagine and try some of my recipes let me know how it goes. I’m also available for any questions regarding Moroccan tagine pots.