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Cuisine Marrakech

Moroccan · Tagines

Turkey Tagine with Chestnuts

A winter tagine that pairs braised turkey thigh with sweet roasted chestnuts and warming cinnamon, a less common but increasingly popular dish on cold-season Moroccan tables, especially where turkey has become an affordable substitute for other meats.

Prep
20 min
Cook
70 min
Total
90 min
Serves
4
Level
Medium
Turkey Tagine with Chestnuts

Ingredients

  • 800 g turkey thigh, cut into pieces
  • 200 g cooked, peeled chestnuts
  • 1 onion, grated
  • 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp ginger
  • Pinch saffron
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt

Method

  1. 1

    Brown the turkey

    Warm the oil and brown the turkey pieces, then add the onion, cinnamon, ginger, saffron and salt.

  2. 2

    Braise

    Add 300 ml water, cover, and simmer over low heat for 50–55 minutes until tender.

  3. 3

    Add chestnuts

    Stir in the chestnuts and honey and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  4. 4

    Serve

    Serve with bread or couscous.

Chef's tips

  • Pre-cooked vacuum-packed chestnuts save considerable time and work well here.
  • Turkey thigh stays juicier through the long braise than turkey breast, which can dry out.

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Yes, chicken thighs work well too, though the cooking time will be slightly shorter.