Moroccan Meatball Tagine (Kefta Mkaouara) Recipe

This Moroccan Meatball Tagine, also known as Kefta Mkaouara, is a rich, flavorful dish made with spiced beef or lamb meatballs simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce. Traditionally cooked in a tagine, it’s a comforting and aromatic dish perfect for serving with crusty bread or couscous.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Moroccan Flavors – A perfect blend of warm spices and rich tomato sauce.
One-Pan Meal – Everything cooks in a single tagine or skillet.
Easy & Delicious – Simple steps for an impressive dish!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs (Kefta):

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Garnish:

• 2 eggs (for traditional kefta tagine)
• Extra chopped cilantro and parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a bowl, mix ground meat with minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
2. Shape into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter).

Step 2: Cook the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a tagine or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, water, and sugar (if using). Stir and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Meatballs

1. Gently place the meatballs into the simmering sauce.
2. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes on low heat, occasionally stirring.

Step 4: (Optional) Add Eggs

1. If using eggs, crack them directly into the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
2. Cover and let the eggs poach until whites are set but yolks are still runny.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Sprinkle with extra chopped cilantro and parsley.
• Serve hot with crusty bread, couscous, or rice.

Tips & Variations

Want it Spicier? – Add harissa or extra cayenne for a heat boost.
Serve Traditionally – With Moroccan khobz (bread) for dipping.
Richer Sauce? – Add a teaspoon of tomato paste for depth.

This Moroccan Meatball Tagine is an irresistible dish full of bold spices and comforting flavors.

Discover more meatball recipes like our Garlic Meatballs
Explore Moroccan cuisine on The Spruce Eats