Moroccan Sardine Ball Tagine: A Delicious and Traditional Recipe

Byrecipesbytima
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Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, and one dish that beautifully encapsulates these elements is the Moroccan Sardine Ball Tagine. This recipe combines the savory taste of sardines with the freshness of vegetables and the warmth of Moroccan spices, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

For the Sardine Balls:

  • 1 pound fresh sardines (or 2 cans of sardines in tomato sauce or olive oil)
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp breadcrumbs or cornstarch (to help bind the mixture)

For the Tagine Sauce:

  • 2 large tomatoes, grated and skin discarded
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup water
  • Green olives, rinsed (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sardine Balls

  1. Clean and Prepare Sardines: If using fresh sardines, debone and clean them. If using canned sardines, drain the liquid and reserve it for later use.
  2. Mix Sardine Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the sardines until finely minced. Add cooked rice, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. Process until well combined.
  3. Add Binding Agent: Mix in breadcrumbs or cornstarch to help bind the mixture. Note: Using breadcrumbs can provide better cohesion compared to cornstarch alone1.
  4. Form Sardine Balls: Wet your hands and shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Refrigerate until needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Tagine Sauce

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a deep skillet or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the sliced onions and cook until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add Vegetables: Layer the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes on top of the onions.
  4. Add Sardine Balls: Place the sardine balls on top of the vegetables.
  5. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the grated tomatoes, parsley, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Add Lemon Juice and Water: Pour in the lemon juice and water. If using canned sardine liquid, add it now.
  7. Simmer: Cover the skillet or tagine and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sardine balls are cooked through.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Garnish with Olives: If desired, top with green olives.
  2. Serve with Bread or Rice: Serve the tagine hot with crusty bread or over spiced rice.

Notes:

  • For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
  • Adjust spices according to taste.
  • If using canned sardines, you can skip the step of pulsing them in a food processor and directly mix with other ingredients.

Variations and Tips

  • Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin, paprika, or chili peppers to suit your taste preferences.
  • Binding Agent: Using breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch can help maintain the integrity of the sardine balls during cooking.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with spiced Basmati rice or Moroccan bread for a complete meal.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of fish and spices. Enjoy exploring the flavors of Morocco with this delightful sardine ball tagine!