Skip to main content

Vegetarian Tagine

This aromatic vegan vegetable tagine is a vibrant celebration of North African flavours, combining sweet and savoury notes in one comforting pot. Gently spiced with cinnamon, cumin and ginger, the dish features a medley of tender butternut squash and cauliflower simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The addition of plump raisins provides a subtle sweetness that balances the earthy chickpeas, creating a hearty meal that is as nutritious as it is flavourful.

Ideal for a mid-week dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this plant-based stew is incredibly simple to prepare and naturally low in fat. It serves as a fantastic source of fibre and plant-based protein, making it a healthy choice for the whole family. Simply serve over a bed of fluffy couscous and finish with a handful of toasted almonds and olives for an authentic, homemade touch.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Vegetarian Tagine

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 stalk celery, diced

  • 1 carrot, diced

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated or 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 (400g) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into chunks (about 2 cups)

  • 2 cups cauliflower florets (1 small head)

  • 475ml low sodium vegetable broth

  • 475ml cooked chickpeas or 1 (425g) can, rinsed and drained

  • 40g raisins or currants

  • 450g cooked couscous

How to make Vegetarian Tagine

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the onions and garlic and cook for 3 minutes.

  3. Add the celery, carrots, paprika, cinnamon, cumin, ginger and salt. Cook an additional 5 minutes, until the veggies are soft and the spices are fragrant.

  4. Add the tomatoes, butternut squash, cauliflower, and vegetable broth, and stir to combine.

  5. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15–20 minutes.

  6. Stir in the chickpeas and raisins and cook an additional 10–15 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

  7. Serve over couscous with sliced almonds and green or black olives, if desired.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.