iSpice Ras el Hanout Seasoning recipes

Ras el Hanout Seasoning, a staple in North African cuisine, particularly Moroccan, is a complex and aromatic spice blend typically consisting of over a dozen spices, including cumin, coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, turmeric, and many others. Each mixture can be unique, with some including over twenty different ingredients, creating a rich, deep flavor profile that is versatile and vibrant.

Here are 5 simple recipes that showcase the magic of Ras el Hanout Seasoning:

1. Ras el Hanout Roasted Chicken:

   • Ingredients:
     • 4 chicken thighs
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout Seasoning
     • Salt to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Rub the chicken with olive oil and Ras el Hanout Seasoning.
     • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
     • Place chicken in a baking dish and roast for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
     • Serve with couscous and a cucumber yogurt salad.

2. Moroccan Vegetable Tagine:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 onion, chopped
     • 2 carrots, sliced
     • 1 sweet potato, cubed
     • 1 zucchini, cubed
     • 1 can chickpeas, drained
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout Seasoning
     • 1 cup vegetable broth
   • Instructions:
     • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
     • Add onions and sauté until translucent.
     • Add the rest of the vegetables, chickpeas, Ras el Hanout, and vegetable broth.
     • Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
     • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

3. Ras el Hanout Spiced Lamb Chops:

   • Ingredients:
     • 4 lamb chops
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout Seasoning
     • Salt to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Rub the lamb chops with olive oil and Ras el Hanout Seasoning.
     • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
     • Cook the lamb chops for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach the desired doneness.
     • Serve with roasted vegetables and mint yogurt.

4. Ras el Hanout Couscous Salad:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 cup couscous
     • 1 1/4 cups boiling water
     • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
     • 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
     • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout Seasoning
   • Instructions:
     • Place couscous in a bowl, stir in Ras el Hanout Seasoning, and cover with boiling water.
     • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let sit for 5 minutes.
     • Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in olive oil, apricots, almonds, and mint.
     • Serve chilled or at room temperature.

5. Ras el Hanout Spiced Pumpkin Soup:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed
     • 1 onion, chopped
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 1 tablespoon olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Ras el Hanout Seasoning
     • 4 cups vegetable broth
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
     • Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
     • Add pumpkin, Ras el Hanout, and broth.
     • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
     • Puree the soup until smooth.
     • Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot, garnished with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

These recipes demonstrate how Ras el Hanout can transform simple ingredients into rich, flavorful dishes that embody the essence of North African cuisine. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile blend to add depth and warmth to your cooking!