Name: Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 3 lbs Beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 large Onion, chopped; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 inch Ginger, grated; 1 tsp Ground cumin; 1 tsp Ground coriander; 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder; 1/4 tsp Cinnamon; 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups Beef broth; 1 cup Dried apricots, halved; 1/2 cup Raisins; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Cooked couscous, for serving; 1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish; 1/4 cup Sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish (optional); 1 Lemon, cut into wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with warmth, color, and a subtle touch of sweetness, you’re going to absolutely adore this Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe. It’s a slow-simmered celebration of tender beef mingled with fragrant spices, juicy dried apricots, and luscious raisins that create a perfect balance of savory and sweet. This stew isn’t just comfort food; it’s a flavorful journey that brings a bit of Morocco’s culinary magic right into your own kitchen.

Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this unforgettable stew, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building the vibrant flavors and luscious texture. Here’s a glimpse into the magic components that make this dish shine:

Beef chuck roast: The star protein that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef for that deep, caramelized flavor.
Onion: Provides sweetness and a base of aromatic flavor.
Garlic and ginger: Bring bold fragrance and a bit of zest.
Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper: The essential Moroccan-inspired spice blend that layers warmth and a touch of heat.
Diced tomatoes: Offer acidity and depth to the stew’s broth.
Beef broth: The liquid base that marries all the flavors together.
Dried apricots: Introduce a luscious sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory beef.
Raisins: Add bursts of chewy sweetness throughout the stew.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that amplify all the other ingredients.
Couscous: The fluffy, light grain perfect for soaking up that rich stew.
Fresh cilantro and toasted almonds (optional): Garnishes that add freshness and crunch to every bite.
Lemon wedges: For an optional bright, tangy finish.

How to Make Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. In batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides to develop that mouthwatering caramelized crust. Don’t rush this step—those browned bits are where much of the stew’s flavor begins. Once browned, set the beef aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking briefly until fragrant—this will infuse the base with vibrant depth that’s characteristic of Moroccan cooking.

Step 3: Add Spices

Time for the magic Moroccan touch. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper if you want a bit of heat. Stir constantly for about a minute to toast the spices and unlock their full aroma—this step really elevates the stew from simple to spectacular.

Step 4: Cook the Stew

Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Toss in the dried apricots and raisins, stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook low and slow for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Give the stew a final taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the luscious stew over fluffy couscous, and don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro and toasted almonds for that extra layer of flavor and texture. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens each spoonful perfectly.

How to Serve Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro and toasted sliced almonds brings balance to this hearty stew, offering bursts of freshness and crunch that beautifully complement the tender beef and sweet fruit. Lemon wedges are a brilliant addition for those who love a zesty lift.

Side Dishes

This Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe shines with a simple side of couscous, but you can also serve it over fluffy rice or with warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp salad can add an extra variety of textures and tastes to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the stew in individual deep bowls topped with a sprinkle of toasted almonds and a cilantro leaf. You can also provide lemon wedges on the side for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. If hosting, consider placing small bowls of garnishes on the table so everyone can jazz their stew just how they like it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days, giving the flavors even more time to mingle and deepen.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also microwave single servings, covered, until hot throughout. Pair again with freshly steamed couscous or your preferred side!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other braising cuts like brisket or short ribs. Just ensure they cook low and slow for tender results.

Is the apricot and raisin sweetness overpowering?

Not at all! The sweetness from dried apricots and raisins gently balances the savory, spiced beef without overwhelming it. It gives this stew its signature Moroccan flair that many find irresistible.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just add apricots and raisins during the last hour to keep their texture intact.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

Try to include at least cumin and coriander as they form the stew’s flavor backbone. Cinnamon and turmeric add warm notes, but you can adjust based on what you have. The cayenne pepper is optional depending on how much heat you want.

Can this recipe be adapted for a vegetarian version?

While the traditional recipe focuses on beef, you can substitute hearty vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas along with vegetable broth and still enjoy those classic Moroccan flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

This Moroccan-Inspired Beef Stew with Apricots and Raisins Recipe is such a rewarding dish to make and savor. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and your heart with comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, sharing this stew brings a special warmth and a touch of exotic magic to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy beef stew!