The Tanjia Marrakchia is an iconic Marrakech dish that stands out for its slow cooking in a clay pot, achieving very tender and aromatic meat. Prepared with lamb, it gains a deep flavor rich in spices like cumin, saffron, and ras el hanout.
It is ideal for celebrations and moments when you seek an authentic and comforting culinary experience. Cooking in a clay vessel preserves the flavors and allows the meat to soak in the spices and juices, creating a dish that invites sharing and enjoyment with family or friends.
Traditionally served with Moroccan bread, its concentrated juice is the perfect accompaniment for a special dinner.
Tanjia Marrakchia
Ingredients
1 ½ kilogram of Lamb in pieces
6 Garlic cloves
2 tablespoons of Ground cumin
1 pinch of Saffron
1 Lemon
1 tablespoon of Ras el hanout
100 grams of Fermented butter
1 cup of Water
3 tablespoons of Olive oil
Preparation
Step 1 : Place the lamb pieces in a clay vessel suitable for slow cooking.
Step 2 : Next, add the garlic cloves, cumin, saffron, lemon juice, ras el hanout, and butter into the vessel.
Step 3 : Then, pour in the water and olive oil, mixing carefully so that the meat absorbs the spices.
Step 4 : Seal the vessel hermetically, either with its original lid or with parchment paper and aluminum foil, ensuring that the steam remains trapped inside.
Step 5 : Cook over very low heat for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, until the meat is very tender and falls apart easily when touched.
Step 6 : During cooking, it’s not necessary to constantly stir; let the meat cook in its own juices, allowing it to fully absorb the flavors.
Step 7 : Traditionally, the tanjia is prepared in communal ovens in Marrakech, using gentle embers that enhance its flavor.
Step 8 : Once ready, serve hot, accompanied by Moroccan bread, and enjoy the spiced juice as a delicious sauce to complement the dish.













