A warm and comforting dish combines the natural sweetness of dried fruits with tender pears, slow-cooked to perfection in a traditional tagine. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time50 min
Difficulty
Medium
Cooking Secrets
Soak dried fruits in warm water or juice before cooking to make them plumper and more tender.
Use a heavy-bottomed tagine or pot to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
Add spices gradually and taste as you go to balance sweetness and warmth perfectly.
Ingredients
0/8
Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite
This dish combines the natural sweetness of dried fruits and pears with warm spices, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s both hearty and light, making it perfect for any season. The slow cooking in a tagine allows the flavors to blend beautifully, offering a unique taste experience.
Step 1
Gently heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, wash a lemon and carefully peel it with a knife, trying to get one long strip of zest. Squeeze the juice from half the lemon into a small saucepan, then add some honey, a cinnamon stick, and a split vanilla bean. Bring this mixture to a boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it becomes fragrant and a bit syrupy.
Step 2
Arrange the pears in your tagine with the cored side facing up. Scatter prunes, apricots, almonds, and the lemon peel around and on top of the pears if you need to. Pour the lemon-honey syrup over everything, letting the cinnamon stick and vanilla bean pieces fall in as well. Cover the tagine and pop it into the oven.
Step 3
After 20 minutes, take the tagine out and remove the lid, letting any steam drip back inside. Flip the pears over and sprinkle in some pine nuts. Cover it back up and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes.
Step 4
Finally, turn the oven off but leave the tagine inside for about 10 more minutes to let the sauce thicken up a bit. Then it’s ready to serve and enjoy!
287
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Tips
Serve this dish with couscous, rice, or warm flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with toasted nuts or fresh herbs to add extra texture and color.
How To Preserve This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the texture of the fruits. For longer storage, freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruits?
Yes, you can substitute with fresh apricots and prunes, but reduce the cooking time slightly as fresh fruits soften faster.
What can I use if I don’t have a tagine?
A covered casserole dish or Dutch oven works well as an alternative for slow cooking in the oven.
Is it necessary to peel the lemon in one long strip?
No, but peeling it in one strip helps release more flavor and looks nicer in the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
How do I know when the pears are done?
The pears should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?
Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives if you prefer.
What type of honey is best to use?
Mild-flavored honey like clover or wildflower works best to complement the fruit and spices without overpowering them.
Do I need to use the vanilla bean, or can I use vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract can be used, but add it after cooking to preserve its flavor since it’s less heat-stable than the bean.
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