Are you ready to spice up your culinary game? Look no further than the ancient Moroccan blend of spices known as Ras el Hanout! This magical mix of over 30 aromatic spices has been a staple in North African cuisine for centuries. Whether you’re looking to add depth and warmth to a hearty stew, or seeking to elevate a simple roasted vegetable dish, Ras el Hanout is the perfect ingredient to have up your sleeve.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 exotic recipes that showcase the versatility of Ras el Hanout. From classic Moroccan lamb tagines to innovative sweet potato roasts, we’ll be diving into the world of flavors and spices that this incredible blend has to offer. So why wait? Dive in and discover the magic of Ras el Hanout for yourself!
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Ras el Hanout
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Ras el Hanout Recipe
Summary:
Experience the authentic flavors of Morocco with this hearty lamb tagine, infused with the aromatic spices of ras el hanout. A slow-cooked stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons ras el hanout spice blend
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb broth or water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in the bottom of a clay or ceramic tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add lamb, onions, garlic, ginger, ras el hanout, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until lamb is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Chickpea Stew
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful stew that combines the rich spices of Ras el Hanout with creamy chickpeas. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Ras el Hanout, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Ras el Hanout Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful Moroccan-inspired marinade, featuring the warm spices of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Ras el Hanout, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ras el Hanout Roasted Carrots and Sweet Potatoes
This flavorful recipe combines the warmth of Ras el Hanout spices with the natural sweetness of roasted carrots and sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potatoes, carrots, olive oil, Ras el Hanout, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Couscous with Ras el Hanout and Apricots
This flavorful dish combines the comforting warmth of spiced couscous with the sweet, chewy texture of apricots, all tied together by the aromatic spice blend of ras el hanout. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ras el hanout
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt to taste
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the olive oil, ras el hanout, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. Stir in the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork and season with salt to taste.
4. Mix in the chopped apricots and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ras el Hanout Infused Beef Kebabs
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful Ras el Hanout-infused beef kebabs, bursting with aromatic spices and tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon ras el hanout spice blend
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, ras el hanout spice blend, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the beef strips.
4. Thread beef, onion, and bell pepper pieces onto wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Warm Lentil Salad with Ras el Hanout Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this hearty and aromatic dish, perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch. This warm lentil salad is infused with the complex spices of ras el hanout, adding depth and warmth to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ras el hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. Stir in ras el hanout and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked lentils and add to the skillet with the spice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout and Honey Glazed Salmon
Discover the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this Ras el Hanout and Honey Glazed Salmon recipe, a unique twist on traditional glazed salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together honey and Ras el Hanout spice blend.
5. Brush the honey-Ras el Hanout mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Moroccan Vegetable Soup with Ras el Hanout
Moroccan Vegetable Soup with Ras el Hanout Recipe
This hearty and aromatic soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal any time of the year. The blend of spices in Ras el Hanout adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
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 garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Ras el Hanout spice blend; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe combines the warm, aromatic flavors of Ras el Hanout with the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower, creating a delicious and healthy side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, Ras el Hanout, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Ras el Hanout Lamb Shanks
Experience the bold flavors of North Africa with this slow-cooked lamb shank recipe, infused with the aromatic spices of ras el hanout. Tender and fall-apart, these lamb shanks are perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ras el hanout spice blend
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, ras el hanout, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Place the lamb shanks in the slow cooker and pour in the broth mixture. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Quinoa Pilaf with Ras el Hanout and Almonds
Elevate your grain game with this aromatic quinoa pilaf, infused with the warm spices of Ras el Hanout and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Ras el Hanout and stir for 1 minute to release its flavors.
4. Add the quinoa to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
5. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
6. Fluff the quinoa pilaf with a fork and stir in the sliced almonds. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ras el Hanout Spiced Pumpkin Soup
This Moroccan-inspired soup combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin with the warm, aromatic spices of Ras el Hanout. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or as a unique twist on traditional pumpkin soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and pureed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, Ras el Hanout, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook 1 minute.
3. Add broth and pumpkin puree. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat; let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with heavy cream if desired. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Eggplant with Ras el Hanout Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your summer cooking with this flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of grilled eggplant with the warm, aromatic spices of ras el hanout in a tangy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp ras el hanout
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of eggplant with olive oil and season with ras el hanout, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and honey.
6. Serve grilled eggplant with ras el hanout yogurt sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ras el Hanout and Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, featuring the warm spices of Ras el Hanout and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Ras el Hanout and minced garlic.
3. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the Ras el Hanout-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Rice with Ras el Hanout
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this aromatic rice dish, infused with the warm spices of Ras el Hanout. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for accompanying a variety of Moroccan-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Ras el Hanout (Moroccan spice blend)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions.
5. Add the water, Ras el Hanout, and salt. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ras el Hanout Braised Short Ribs
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of North Africa with this slow-cooked dish, where tender short ribs are infused with the exotic spices and herbs of Ras el Hanout.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout spice blend
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and Ras el Hanout.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add wine, broth, tomatoes, and honey. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot, cover with lid, and transfer to oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
8. Serve with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Spiced Butternut Squash with Ras el Hanout
Discover the warm, aromatic flavors of Morocco with this simple and delicious recipe. Roasted butternut squash is elevated by the complex spice blend Ras el Hanout, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Ras el Hanout
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel, de-seed, and cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, Ras el Hanout, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 exotic ras el hanout recipes! This Moroccan blend of spices adds flavor and depth to a variety of dishes, from hearty tagines and stews to grilled meats and roasted vegetables. Discover how ras el hanout can elevate the taste of lamb, chicken, beef, fish, and more in recipes like Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Ras el Hanout, Grilled Chicken with Ras el Hanout Marinade, and Ras el Hanout Roasted Carrots and Sweet Potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful feast or a quick weeknight dinner, this collection has something for everyone.