The aroma of spices fills the air as you walk into a kitchen where an Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine is bubbling away. Imagine tender lamb simmering with fragrant herbs, plump olives, and sweet apricots, all mingling together in a symphony of flavors that could make even the most stoic taste buds dance. Mediterranean Chickpea Spinach Skillet This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that transports you straight to the sun-soaked markets of Marrakech with every savory bite.
This delightful dish brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the wine. Picture this: my cousin trying to impress his date with culinary skills he decidedly did not possess, resulting in a kitchen disaster involving more smoke than sautéing. Instant Pot Jambalaya But when it came time for tagine night, even he couldn’t mess this up—thanks to our trusty Instant Pot. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a feast for family and friends, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion into something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
- Its rich and bold flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds.
- The stunning colors and textures make it an eye-catching centerpiece at any meal.
- Versatile enough to serve over couscous, rice, or even on its own!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Lamb Shoulder: Choose bone-in or boneless shoulder for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds depth; choose pitted varieties for convenience.
- Onion: A medium onion provides sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give a robust flavor; mince them for maximum impact.
- Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Cinnamon): These spices create that unique tagine flavor; ensure they’re fresh!
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding moisture.
- Dried Apricots: They add sweetness and balance out the savory elements of the dish.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

How to Make Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and garlic finely so they can release their flavors easily when cooked.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a splash of olive oil then toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Brown the Lamb
Add lamb pieces to the pot in batches. Brown them on all sides—approximately 5 minutes each batch—to develop those deep flavors.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, and cinnamon over the browned lamb. Stir everything together so each piece gets coated in that aromatic goodness.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Olives
Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot—those are flavor gold! Toss in olives and dried apricots now for that sweet-savory contrast.
Step 6: Cook Under Pressure
Close the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to cook on high pressure for about 45 minutes. Once done, let it naturally release pressure for another ten minutes before carefully venting any remaining steam.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Your taste buds are about to embark on a journey they won’t soon forget!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine offers a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
- The dish cooks effortlessly, making meal prep feel like a breeze.
- Plus, it looks fabulous on any dinner table, promising a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the lamb in your Instant Pot to lock in those juicy flavors. While it browns, chop your veggies and prepare your spices for seamless cooking. Finally, add everything back into the pot and let the magic happen!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lamb for chicken or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Dabble with different olives or toss in some dried apricots for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless, so unleash your culinary creativity!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back into your Instant Pot or microwave until warmed through, ensuring those flavors stay vibrant.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When searing meat, don’t crowd the pot; give each piece room to brown properly.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for brighter flavors.
- Let the tagine sit after cooking; it deepens the taste as it rests.
Sometimes, I serve this dish at family gatherings and watch everyone go silent as they savor each bite—it’s like I’ve cast a flavor spell! The compliments just keep rolling in!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine?
To make Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine, gather lamb shoulder, olives, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro enhance the flavor. Additionally, stock or broth provides moisture during cooking. This combination creates a rich and aromatic dish that highlights Mediterranean flavors while being easy to prepare in an Instant Pot. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
How long does it take to cook the tagine in an Instant Pot?
Cooking Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine takes about 35 minutes under pressure, but you should also account for the time needed for the pot to come to pressure and release afterward. Overall, expect around 60 minutes from start to finish. This quick cooking method ensures tender lamb infused with spices, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I substitute other meats in this tagine recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other meats in Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine based on your preference. Chicken thighs work well as a lighter alternative and cook faster. Alternatively, beef can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly since it may require longer to become tender. Korean Bulgogi Beef Rice Always ensure the meat is well-seasoned with the same spices for a consistent flavor profile.
How can I serve my Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine?
Serving Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine is simple yet versatile. Pair it with couscous or rice to absorb the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving to add color and freshness to your dish.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine
In conclusion, Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine offers an easy way to enjoy rich flavors with minimal effort. By using tender lamb and aromatic spices, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The quick cooking method allows for a delightful meal ready in under an hour. Remember to consider ingredient substitutions and serving options to customize your experience. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends! For more inspiration, check out this Savory Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.
Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine
Instant Pot Mediterranean Lamb & Olive Tagine is a flavorful journey to the heart of Morocco, featuring tender lamb, aromatic spices, and sweet apricots simmered together for a rich and satisfying meal ready in under an hour. This dish pairs beautifully with couscous or rice, making it an impressive yet easy option for dinner that will delight family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder (bone-in or boneless), cut into chunks
- 1 cup pitted mixed olives (green and black)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Add olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Brown lamb in batches for about 5 minutes on each side until well-seared.
- Sprinkle cumin, coriander, and cinnamon over the lamb; stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pot. Add olives and dried apricots.
- Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before venting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, feel free to swap lamb with chicken thighs or beef, adjusting cooking times accordingly. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of dried apricots or garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.




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