
Speedy lamb meatball & butternut tagine
Prep
15 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Medium
When I'm craving something warming and exotic but don't have much time, this is my go to dish. Lamb meatballs transform into something really special when you combine them with a fragrant tagine base, sweet butternut squash, and chewy apricots. The whole thing comes together in just 40 minutes from start to table, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. I love that apricots pack loads of fiber and natural sweetness, so you get that indulgent tagine flavor without any fuss. Honestly, this recipe is a lifesaver because it uses a ready made tagine base, which takes all the guesswork out of spicing. Serve it over fluffy couscous with a dollop of Greek yogurt, and you've got a restaurant quality meal that feels like you've been cooking all day.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 1 tbspolive oil
- 500 gramslamb meatballs
- 350 gramstagine stew base
- 400 gramschopped tomatoes(can Essential Chopped Tomatoes In Natural Juice)
- 250 gramsfrozen butternut squash(frozen Butternut Squash)
- 100 gramsdried apricots
- 1 tspvegetable bouillon powder
- 250 gramscouscous
- 25 gramsflat leaf fresh parsley(pack flat leaf parsley, leaves roughly chopped)
- 4 tbspgreek yogurt(Essential Greek Style Yogurt, to serve)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Heat the oil in a large nonstick frying or sauté pan and cook the meatballs over a gentle heat for 5 minutes, until lightly browned. Drain off the excess oil.
- 2
Add the stew base and tomatoes, bring to a simmer, then add the squash and apricots. Cover and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the squash is tender and the meatballs are cooked through with no pink meat and the juices run clear.
- 3
Meanwhile, make 250ml stock with boiling water and the bouillon. Put the couscous into a large bowl, pour over the stock, then cover tightly with a plate. Set aside while the meatballs cook
- 4
Fluff up the couscous with a fork. Check the tagine seasoning and divide between shallow bowls. Scatter over the parsley and serve with the couscous and yogurt.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like

Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.

Dark chocolate, chilli & salted pretzel slice
This is one of my favourite ways to use up a jar of chocolate sauce and create something that tastes far more impressive than it actually is. The magic happens when dark chocolate meets a hint of smoky chilli and the irresistible crunch of salted pretzels, all wrapped up in a simple sponge. Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, so you can feel a little virtuous with each bite. What I love most is that this comes together in just 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes in the oven, making it perfect for when friends drop by unexpectedly. It's basically a one bowl wonder that never fails to impress.

Minted bean & burrata salad
Creamy burrata, sweet broad beans and fresh mint make for a brilliant summertime combo. Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.