Le Creuset Tagine
for slow simmering, rich, savory Moroccan dishes.

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Glazed Terra Cotta Tagine a traditional cooking tool of Morocco, the tagine can be used in the oven or on the stovetop.

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Tagine-Moroccan Cookware

Tagine (pronouced tah-jeen) refers to both a Moroccan stew and the terra cotta cookware used to cook it in. These popular stews are prepared using sweet and savory flavors such as fruits and olives, root vegetables, and a multitude of spices. While lamb is the most frequently used meat in the dishes, recipes can be found using a variety of meats as well as vegitarian options.

The tagine is an earthenware baking dish which has a conical top that provides several functions*. First, the lid shape creates an oven like environment where circulation of the air infuses the food with the aromatic spices and flavoring. Next, like any slow cooker, it helps preserve the liquid in the food, producing a tender piece of meat even with less expensive cuts. Finally, when using on an open fire, the lid shape allows for hot coals from the fire to be stacked up the sides of the cookware enhancing the cooking process.

There are two types of tagines, those used for cooking and those used for serving. Since, the serving tagines are not used in the cooking process, they tend to be more colorful and have more elaborate patterns on them. Because of these finishes, they are not usually dishwasher safe.

The cooking tagines range from the traditional glazed earthenware made in Morocco to the more commercial ones made today by our most popular cookware companies. The glazed terra cotta tagines tend to offer more options when cooking since most can be used in the oven and on the stove top with some care. These often need to be "seasoned" before using them for the first time. However, the modern ones are often more user friendly since they tend to be dishwaser safe and do not require seasoning before the first use. When using the tagine for both cooking and serving, remember to protect the surface of your table as the cookware will be very hot.


* Regardless of which type of tagine you prefer, you will want to read and follow the manufacturer's directions for your cookware. This will ensure the safest, most flavorful meals.