Shrimp Tahini Tagine – Creamy & Delicious Middle Eastern Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 15 minutes   |   Total Time: 30 minutes   |   Servings: 3-4

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and elegant seafood dish, this Shrimp Tahini Tagine is an excellent choice. Tender shrimp are cooked with onions and fresh coriander, then simmered in a rich, creamy tahini sauce brightened with fresh lemon and orange juice. Finished with toasted almonds, this dish offers the perfect balance of nutty, tangy, and savory flavors.

This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is surprisingly easy to make yet tastes restaurant-quality. The creamy tahini sauce coats the shrimp beautifully, while the citrus notes cut through the richness, creating a light yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Served in a traditional tagine or any nice serving dish, this shrimp recipe pairs wonderfully with warm bread, rice, or even over couscous. The toasted almonds on top add a delightful crunch that completes the dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shrimp, cut into small pieces
• ½ cup tahini
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Juice of 1 orange
• ½ cup fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp white pepper
• ½ cup water
• Mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• Oil as needed
• Toasted almonds for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Stir in the chopped coriander and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, orange juice, salt, white pepper, and ½ cup water until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the tahini sauce over the cooked shrimp in the pan. Return to low heat and simmer gently for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving tagine or bowl. Fry the sliced mushrooms in a little oil if using, then scatter them over the shrimp. Garnish generously with toasted almonds. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the amount of lemon and orange juice according to your preferred tanginess.
• Do not overcook the shrimp or they will become rubbery.
• The tahini sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately for the best consistency.
• Toasted almonds add a wonderful crunch — you can also use pine nuts or sesame seeds.
• This dish pairs beautifully with warm Arabic bread or fluffy rice.

Enjoy this creamy, zesty, and aromatic Shrimp Tahini Tagine — a delicious Middle Eastern dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes!