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moroccan sauce
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Moroccan Spiced Beef Sauce

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Calories: 380kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or finely chopped stew beef for heartier texture
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika smoked if you’ve got it
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne optional, for heat
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or passata
  • 1/2 cup beef stock or water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • Splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of honey optional balance

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and smelling amazing, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add ground beef. Break it up and cook until nicely browned, 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain a little, but don’t rinse away all the flavor.
  • Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne. Cook for 1-2 minutes so the spices bloom and wake up the kitchen.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef stock. Bring to a gentle simmer. Scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom and keep it simmering for 15-20 minutes to develop depth.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice or honey if you want a touch of brightness. Simmer another 5 minutes to meld flavors.