If you’re looking for a new cookware piece to add to your kitchen, consider a Moroccan tagine pot. These unique Moroccan pots are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason – they are versatile and can be used for a variety of dishes.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of Moroccan tagine pots available, how to find the perfect one for your kitchen, and some of the best places to buy them online.
So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Moroccan cuisine enthusiast, read on for all the information you need to find the perfect Moroccan tagine pot!
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What is a Tagine pot?
A tagine pot is a traditional cooking vessel that originates from Morocco. It is typically made from clay or ceramic and has a conical shape with a flat base and a tall lid.
The pots are used to slow-cook Moroccan dishes, which often include meats and vegetables. The steam that builds up inside the pot helps to lock in flavor and keep the food moist and zesty.
Depending on how you plan to use it, Moroccan tagine pots can be used on the stovetop or in the oven, making them a versatile cooking option.
Different Types of Moroccan Tagine Pots
There are two main types of Moroccan tagine pots – glazed and unglazed.
Glazed Moroccan tagine pots
Glazed Moroccan tagines have a smooth, glossy finish on the exterior. The glaze is typically applied to the inside of the pot as well, which makes it non-stick and easier to clean.
The problem with this type of Tagine pot is that it may contain lead and other harmful chemicals that many sellers choose not to disclose.
So, when hunting for a glazed tagine, make sure to choose a safe option like this Glazed lead-free Moroccan tagine pot (10 inches). or this large authentic tagine pot (13 inches).
Another lead-free tagine option is Emile Henry Tagine pot. They come in big sizes (12+ inches) which is great for large families or if you entertain often.
Unglazed Moroccan tagine pots
Unglazed Moroccan tagines, on the other hand, have a more rustic look, feel and smell. They are usually made from red clay and have a porous surface.
While unglazed Moroccan tagine pots require more care and upkeep, they produce better-tasting dishes. This is because the porous surface allows the flavors of the food to seep into the pot, giving the dish more depth and complexity.
I personally have both types in my kitchen and use them depending on what I’m making. If I’m short on time or don’t want to deal with the extra care required for an unglazed pot, I’ll opt for a glazed one.
But if I’m making a Moroccan dish that I really want to impress people with, I’ll go for the unglazed option.
Here is my 12-inches unglazed tagine pot.
Cast Iron Moroccan tagine pots
Cast Iron tagine is another option that is becoming increasingly popular.
These tagine pots are a good option for those who want the convenience of using a Moroccan pot but also the durability and easy maintenance of the cast iron.
While these tagine pots don’t have the same flavor-enhancing qualities as clay, they are a good option for those who want a Moroccan tagine-looking pot.
Here is a recommendation for a non-stick cast iron tagine pot.
What about those colorful Moroccan tagine pots?
If you have ever been to Morocco, you’ve probably seen the beautiful, colorful Moroccan tagines in the marketplaces.
They come in different sizes from very tiny ones to big ones that can feed a family.
These tagine pots are purely for serving or decoration and should not be used for cooking.
I usually these colorful tagine pots for serving food that I already cooked in regular cookware to add a Moroccan touch to the presentation.
Here is an affordable colorful tagine for serving. You can combine it with this Moroccan cute tagine spice holder 3 in 1 set.
You can also use the small ones to serve salads, and sauces or you can just display them in your kitchen. Moroccan tagine pots make for a beautiful decorative item.
How to Choose the Perfect Moroccan Tagine?
Now that you know the different types of Moroccan tagine pots available, it’s time to choose the perfect one for your kitchen.
When choosing a Moroccan tagine pot, there are a few things you should keep in mind such as size, shape, and material.
What Moroccan Tagine pot should I buy?
First, decide what material you would like your pot to be made from. The original Clay tagines are the most authentic option, but it’s absolutely fine to go with a stainless steel tagine if you only want the famous Moroccan pot look.
Glazed or unglazed?
When it comes to choosing between glazed or unglazed Moroccan tagine pots, it really comes down to personal preference.
If you want a Tagine pot that is good-looking and easy to care for and doesn’t require much upkeep, go for a glazed option.
But if you’re willing to put in the extra effort required to care for an unglazed Moroccan tagine pot, you’ll be rewarded with Better-tasting dishes.
What Moroccan Tagine size should I buy?
Once you’ve decided on the type and material, consider what size Moroccan tagine pot you need. Moroccan tagine pots typically come in small, medium, and large sizes.
Small Moroccan tagines are about 8 to 10 inches and they are good for feeding one to two people, while large Moroccan tagines can go up to 15 inches to feed a family of four or more.
There are other options in between these sizes as well, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
Where to buy Tagine pots in Morocco?
Moroccan tagine pots are widely available in Morocco, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one.
They can be found in most souks (open markets) in big cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca.
The price of a tagine depends on its type (Glazed/Unglazed) and size. The bigger the Tagine is, the more pricey it will be. Usually, a 10-inch Moroccan Tagine pot will cost you around 100dh (Approx $10).
Where to buy Moroccan tagine pots online?
If you’re not in Morocco or if you want to buy a Moroccan tagine pot without having to haggle over the price, there are several online retailers that sell Moroccan tagines but the most convenient one is Amazon.
Here are a few of the best Moroccan tagine pots available online:
–Unglazed Moroccan tagine pot (12 inches)
–Authentic Moroccan tagine pot (13 inches)
–Glazed lead-free Moroccan tagine pot (10 inches)
–Emile Henry Large Moroccan Tagine pot
–Non-stick cast iron Moroccan tagine pot
–Colorful Moroccan tagine pot for serving
–Moroccan tagine spice holder 3 in 1 set
–Cast Iron heat diffuser plate for your tagine
IMPORTANT: Do this before using your new Moroccan tagine pot
Whether you buy your tagine pot online or in Morocco, make sure to do this one thing before using it. Season it!
Moroccan tagines need to be seasoned before first use. This will help prevent the pot from rusting and make it last longer.
The seasoning process goes like this:
– Soak your Moroccan tagine pot (both the lid and the base) in a bucket of water overnight.
– Dry it completely with a soft cloth and if the tagine pot is unglazed coat it in oil olive from the inside and outside including the lid. (No need to oil the lazed one)
-Put your Tagine in a cold oven. Turn the oven on to 300 F/150 C, and leave it for two hours (set a timer)
-When time is up, turn the oven off and leave the tagine inside to cool completely.
-Once it’s cooled down, wash your Moroccan tagine with a little bit of detergent and water to remove any excess oil.
-And that’s it! Your Moroccan tagine is now ready for use.
Tips on how to properly use a Moroccan tagine pot
Some may think that the Moroccan tagine pot needs to be seasoned everything before use and this is just not true. The seasoning is done one time only before use.
When storing a Moroccan tagine pot brush the inside with some olive oil and wash before use.
When cooking in your Moroccan tagine pot, make sure to not put it on very high heat as this can damage the pot. Moroccan tagines are best cooked on low or moderate heat.
If you are using a gas stove, make sure you use a heat diffuser. Here is the cast iron heat diffuser I recommend.
When cooking Moroccan food in a tagine, it’s important not to add too much liquid. Moroccan tagines cook with steam, so adding too much liquid will make your food soupy instead of stew-like.
Happy Moroccan tagine cooking!
Now that you know everything about Moroccan tagine pots and how to choose the right one for you, all you need is to find some Moroccan tagine recipes and start cooking!
